Experiences in the South Pacific, Africa, and the West Indies are the basis for this examination of the professional status of librarians in developing countries, including rank and salary, faculty or comparable privileges, and opportunities for professional education. In the instances considered, factors of expatriate service, individual achievement, government support, and incipient unionism are considered to be of major importance as these nations seek to produce an indigenous professionally educated staff of librarians whose members can compete for status with faculty or other comparable staff. A pragmatic approach, dedication, and the utilization of paraprofessionals are seen as necessary to properly balance national, institutional, and individual interests if librarians are to assist their nations to meet pressing social problems. (RAA)