This manual was prepared to assist managers of information and referral (I&R) services to develop and maintain an adequate file of resources for the I&R center. Topics covered include preliminary planning, time estimates for set-up and file up-dating; the concept of recruiting volunteers to help operate the center and training that would be needed; descriptions of several currently operating systems for gathering and organizing information for rapid and accurate retrieval; the identification of community agencies and the services they provide, and how staff should approach these organizations to explain the I&R service and also gather important referral information; procedures for contacting private practitioners; a filing system that could be used in an I&R center; how the resource file can be made more flexible; and procedures to be followed in using and updating the resource file. The appendix contains copies of questionnaires, file forms, form letters, and flow charts. (JAB)