A writing lab director's rationale for the development and use of a tutors' handbook emphasizes its function as a time-saver for all those involved in the lab and as a morale builder for the tutors. The handbook relates information about the paperwork involved in the lab and about the definition, purpose, and advantages of tutoring. Other benefits derived from use of the handbook include specifying goals for tutors and giving them a sense of security. The handbook is introduced at an initial orientation period, freeing later orientation time for reviewing resource materials and discussing negative student attitudes. The long-range effectiveness of the handbook cannot yet be gauged, but it appears to be more effective than a series of individual handout sheets and has been enthusiastically received by tbe tutoring staff. (AEA)