This study, conducted at a community college in mid-Missouri, compared the reading ability of students with the readability of the textbooks (aside from technical books) used in their classes. There were a total of 17 textbook/class comparisons. The reading level of students was determined by the Nelson-Denny Reading Test, revised edition, and readability of texts was determined by the Dale-Chall Readability formula. It was found that 52 per cent of students studied had reading abilities below the grade-level placement of the textbooks used in their classes. The mean reading ability grade level for freshmen was 12.6 while the mean readability grade level of texts was 13. It is recommended that: (1) community college faculties review their means of textbook selection, utilizing a readability formula and/or analysis; (2) where a range of reading ability exists, two or three texts at different readability levels should be used; (3) other classroom aids should be used to augment and clarify text materials; and (4) reading and study skills programs should be instituted. (CA)