In compliance with legislation enacted by New York State in 1981, a manual of recommendations and standards for hospital libraries was developed (1) to assist in assessment of the quality of hospital library services; (2) to enable measurement of the improvement in individual institutions; and (3) to be used as criteria in the administration of hospital library grant programs. It is noted that the manual does not address library service to patients or the additional needs of hospitals engaged in specific education functions. Part 1, which presents descriptive guidelines meant to be applied to all hospitals licensed by the New York State Department of Health, covers hospital library purposes, administration, services, staff, facilities, equipment, budgets, and resources, as well as library advisory committees and cooperative arrangements. Part 2 presents quantitative guidelines for hospitals grouped into five categories, with recommended minimum levels of services, staffing, budgeting, resources, and participation in cooperative arrangements for each category. The use of an appropriate assessment form is briefly discussed in Part 3, followed by a sample form. Appendices provide a copy of the hospital library standards legislation, a glossary, a 66-item bibliography, and a list of organizations and libraries which can provide further information on hospital library services. (ESR)