Attempts by American library systems to bring the public library and its services into the lives of people with little or no tradition of using books for pleasure and profit are reported in hopes that Canadian public librarians may be able to put some of this report's findings to practical use. Librarians working in disadvantaged areas are generally agreed that the chances of success are greater with children than with adults and teenagers. Activities aimed at reaching children include: class visits; story hours; film programs; Art and Puppet-Making Classes; and a Fun with Language and a Newspaper Club. Most librarians working in disadvantaged areas advocate greater use of paperbound books. Non-readers, particularly teenagers, seem to prefer a paperbound to a hardcover edition. The programs for adults are not as successful as the children's programs. A Mother's Morning Coffee Hour and Discussion Group in conjunction with a picture book-hour for their children has had mixed success. Public librarians are urged to get in touch with teachers and social workers in Canadian anti-poverty programs while they are still in the planning stage. If the librarians do not take the initiative, the library and the special contribution it can and should make may be left out of the picture. (Author/NH)