A detailed demographic study of York County, Maine in 1973 found that while most existing colleges offered four-year programs, job opportunities were eight times greater for associate degree holders; that the state could not afford to construct or maintain additional campuses; and that a large number of residents lived too far from existing campuses to commute. Based on these findings, the current community college system, described in this report, was recommended and adopted. The system offers comprehensive occupational, technical and liberal arts programs, and other services meeting southern Maine's economic and cultural needs. Programs use existing public and private educational institutions and facilities such as museums, libraries, community centers, and hospitals. Conveniently located facilities are leased for regional learning centers in order to serve the largest possible population. The report considers the background of the system; its organization and structure; the function of the Joint Administrative Board as cooperative link between community interests, associate degree programs at the University of Maine at Portland-Gorham, and the learning centers; the faculty; the students; the budget; program evaluation; and future plans. An appendix presents the policies and procedures of the associate degree studies policy committee. (TR)