This paper describes a unique library fund raiser at California State University (Northridge). "A Trial for the Books" was a dog agility trial held on April 26-27, 1996 as a benefit for the university's Oviatt Library. The event was hosted by West Valley DogSports, a community group. The event raised approximately $2,500 for the library's collection, with minimal commitment of library staff time and energy. Dog agility is a competitive event in which competitors seek to achieve titles for performances meeting specific standards set by recognized dog organizations. Local businesses and others with an interest in dog agility were offered advertising in the event's printed catalogs in exchange for a donation to the Friends of the Oviatt Library. Other companies donated items necessary for the trial, thereby reducing the expense of putting on the event. Additional funds were raised through a donation program known as the Honored Scholar Dogs. In exchange for a donation by their owners, dogs were honored on a special list in the event's printed catalogs. This event serves as a model of how other community interest groups might find ways to hold mutually beneficial events in conjunction with the library. Appendices include letters and forms used to solicit donations. (Author/SWC).