Prompted by the realization that a reference text presents special problems in audience address since there is typically a diverse set of users, a study was designed to provide preliminary data on the use of the reference text, "The Making, Shaping and Treating of Steel," a landmark book in the steel industry. Data on the use of the text were collected through interviews, requiring approximately one hour, with a sample of 19 users of the text from various segments of the industry. Questions were divided into four categories: (1) background questions involving relevant characteristics of the respondents, edition of the book used, and number of years used; (2) questions of last usage; (3) questions of general use; and (4) problems and suggestions for improvement. Results indicated that the text was considered by most users as the reference of first resort to which they turned for information, and its scope was viewed as comprehensive. However, respondents did complain that the book did not provide them with follow-up resources--more detailed or alternative presentations. On a scale of 1 to 5 (1=very good, very useful; 5=throw it out of the window), the readers rated the book at an average of 1.8, which indicates there are ways to improve the text. In fact, respondents offered 13 recommendations for improvement. (HOD)