Local studies librarianship has changed dramatically since the publication of the first edition of these guidelines in 1990. The guidelines are the product of a working group set up by the Library Association Local Studies Group, and are intended to provide advice on best practice to all local studies libraries staff. This comprehensively revised second edition is in two main sections: the Local Studies Service, covering user needs, relationships with other professional bodies and promotion of the service to potential users; and resources, giving guidance on collection policy and management, staffing recommendations and facilities management. The guidelines constitute a policy statement on provision of a complete and comprehensive service to local studies users in public libraries. They form a starting point for authorities setting services and a resource from which to benchmark existing services.