This report summarizes the development, dissemination, and current applications of the Basic Indexing and Retrieval System (BIRS). BIRS is a collection of Fortran IV computer programs designed to allow educational and psychological researchers to use their own locally based computer to construct and maintain the type of information retrieval system which best meets their individual needs. Given a collection of informational elements punched on cards, such as abstracts of research documents, and descriptions of instructional materials, the system produces a variety of information services. These services include the preparation of computer generated books with author/subject indexes and the development of automated reference searches for information elements relevant to specific queries. This report (1) provides sufficient information about BIRS to permit the reader to decide whether the system can be applied to his particular information retrieval problem and (2) describes how the reader may obtain copies of the system and its technical documentation. (Author/JB)