This annotated bibliography addresses issues, principles, programs, and research about respite care published in articles and books from 1978-1988. It covers a wide range of topics, from comprehensive overviews of respite issues, services, and policies to descriptions of specific respite care program models. A number of the bibliographic entries offer discussions of the benefits of respite care, and present the findings from studies designed to assess the impact of respite care on the lives of families. Policy issues, including funding questions, are examined, along with training issues, such as the need for training, necessary knowledge and skills for respite care providers, and an evaluation of training approaches. The 42 bibliography entries are presented in alphabetical order by author. Each annotation contains a summary of the main points or findings in considerable detail. The document concludes with a list of 43 respite care programs across the United States. (JDD)