This manual is designed to serve as a textbook outlining sound library administrative practices or as an aid in policy development. The basics of good library services are described, and libraries are encouraged to choose services appropriate for their situation, plan for them, and measure their effectiveness. Ninety performance measures outline quality library service in six major areas: (1) governance, administration, and funding; (2) staffing; (3) collections; (4) services; (5) public relations; and (6) access and facilities. These performance measures are intended to encourage the ongoing development of consistent and high quality library services through the identification of relevant policies, service levels, role selection, and output measures. More emphasis is placed on planning and role setting than on statistics. The conflict between general standards and the belief that each library must determine its own role in the community is also addressed. Appended materials include a model ordinance, sample library service policies, guidelines to formulating a community study, recommended minimum holdings, a space needs worksheet, criteria for State Library of Iowa certification, a glossary of relevant terms, and a 19-item bibliography. (SD)