Many problems in developing biomedical library services for the emerging nations of Southeast Asia remain amenable only to legislation; however, IFLA seems particularly well situated to assist in these tasks. Of the numerous political and technical problems to be overcome, first and foremost are the difficulties involved in the simple transmission of information in and out of a country due to lack of publishing and distribution networks on one hand, and governmental restriction on the other. Others include absence of a biomedical research communication system, lack of published papers from and about professional meetings, lack of technical book and journal collections, and shortage of trained library staff. IFLA, being voluntary, can act as a bridge in the international community, encouraging national membership in shared informational ventures and applying persuasive pressure on members to gather and allow access to information on a quid pro quo basis. Further assistance might include the preparation and publication of national holdings of biochemical works and journals, reprography, encouragement for interlibrary loan, resolution of customs problems, advice on and preparation for computer technology, and promotion of incountry library staff training. IFLA should consider the formation of regional and even national subdivisions to promote these and other projects of mutual cooperation and communication. (RAA)