This manual is intended to provide users with a description of the information required by the New York State Library to adequately process a database search. Sections cover computer searching, what it and its advantages are; topic suitability; turnaround time for receipt of a database printout; reference interview to determine search topic; searching tools; success and failure factors of a database search; cost of searching; receipt of citations; and Boolean logic (how the search analyst formulates a search). Appendices present the content, scope, and charges for database use through the State Library, and outline the procedures for submitting requests by teletype--for database searches through the New York State Interlibrary Loan Network (NYSILL)--or by mail through the State Library. Also included are sample database search request forms (NYSILL and mail) and addresses where further questions may be directed. (Author/JD)