This case study of the Kossuth Lajos Tudomanyeyetem, an academic library in Debrecen (Hungary), conducted in May 1992, describes its functioning and needs. Information gathered through a series of interviews, tours, library reports, and a review of relevant literature forms the basis for the case study. An overview of the library in its historical and cultural context sets the stage for an in-depth review of the library's technical processing, acquisitions practices, and public services approach. The study goes on to examine the broader issues in Hungary of higher education, professional status of librarians, library automation, and the challenges of change facing libraries in the near future. The disappearance of nation-wide central control and planning in the changing context of Hungarian politics could result in inefficient application of efforts and the adoption of incompatible standards and technology if a new pattern of strong cooperation between libraries is not developed. Central planning and librarian education are crucial for the development of Hungarian libraries. (Contains 13 references.) (SLD)