Computer-based reference search services were provided to users on a fee-for-service basis at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology as the first, and experimental, note in the development of the Northeast Academic Science Information Center (NASIC). Development of a training program for information specialists and training materials is described. Testing, user surveys, and 15 months of operational experience show that: (1) a moderate but growing demand exists for computer-based reference search services; (2) 77 percent of users perceive the service to be cost-effective; (3) promotional efforts need to be very intense both to increase general awareness of the service and to turn awareness into actual use; (4) many different promotional mechanisms are needed; the best are oriented toward the immediate, personal needs of the potential user; (5) cost affects the class of user, but it is only one of many factors that influence a person's decision to use the service; (6) searches are often interdisciplinary and require several sources; (7) information specialists need extensive training and practice searching to attain desirable levels of competence; and (8) integration of these services within the library environment may require organizational and staffing accommodation in addition to the commitment and enthusiasm of participants. (Author)