The report presents the findings, analysis, and conclusions of the external evaluation of the effectiveness of Alberta Education Library Services conducted between September 1985 and March 1986 under the guidance of the Library Services Evaluation Steering Committee (Phase 2 of the evaluation and planning process initiated in 1985 to clarify the future role and direction of library services). Background and methodology for the study are discussed; current practices and trends in special libraries are outlined; study findings derived from the library services questionnaires, user interviews, and examinations of library operations are presented; a model for special libraries is offered; the current program is evaluated; and the needs for and benefits of specific new services are assessed. Six guidelines concerning mission, policy development, program and delivery standards, planning and evaluation cycle, departmental integration, and program delivery options are presented for Phase 3 of the evaluation and planning process. Supporting data, primarily statistical, are presented in 27 tables, and 29 references are listed following the body of the report. Three appendices contain the survey instrument, survey analysis, and external library interviews. (KM)