This paper describes the experimental implementation of BIROS (Bibliographical Information Retrieval Online Service) in the Lancashire Public Library. The project is designed to provide information on the potential use of an online service for the general public, with particular regard to professional and technical users; the implications for public libraries of operating such a service; and the implications for library school teaching. A discussion of the goals and expectations of the service, which provides access to the major commercial online systems and databases, is followed by descriptions of the preparation phase and the first seven months of a 12-month operational phase. Components of these phases include training, staff orientation, publicity, demonstrations, policies for charging fees and handling requests, and evaluation of the search activity. An assessment of the search service by the first 56 users is included. (Author/SW)