Prepared as a background paper for the Governor's Conference on Libraries in June 1978, this document presents a summary of what is known (or not known) about the library 'picture' in New York State. This picture is sketched in an overview, and then specific areas are colored in. Information on each type of library--school, public, academic, institutional, and special--is provided with supportive statistics describing such aspects as resources and uses, financial support, and staff. Services for the blind and physically handicapped are presented, as well as those provided by library systems and networks (other than public) which exist within New York or to which state libraries belong. Library functions at the state level, followed by a brief discussion of library education in the state, conclude the report. Appendices include maps of the state library systems; statistical tables which summarize data on New York's public libraries, elementary and secondary enrollment and expenditures, college and university enrollment, and federal aid to education; state and federal legislation relating to libraries; and a bibliography. As an additional tool for the delegates to the Conference, a section of statements for discussion and study has been attached. (JD)