This study examined the use of children's textbooks in the public library. The study looks at procedures used to obtain textbooks, uses of textbooks, how textbooks are processed and accessed, and the impact of the textbook collection on library service to students. A questionnaire was mailed to libraries providing textbooks to children in a suburban library system in Illinois. Data showed that all libraries obtained textbooks free from local schools. The children's librarian was always instrumental in securing the texts. The schools assumed responsibility for maintaining currency of the textbooks. None of the respondents circulated the textbook collection; all treated it as a reference collection for in-house use only. Most respondents made the text collection available in an easy access area. There was an increase in parent and student use of the library as a result of this service. Heaviest use of textbooks was recorded at the fourth, fifth, and sixth grade levels. All respondents agreed that the textbook collection resulted in positive press for both the participating schools and the library. Most saw an increase in photocopying as a result of the presence of textbooks. In some cases, a homework center was established in conjunction with the text collection, and some respondents reported an increase in tutoring at the library. A strong commitment to the continuation of the service was indicated. (Contains 14 references.) (Author/KRN)