The issue of centralization vs decentralization in university library systems is studied in the context of Saudi Arabia. After a review of the relevant literature, background information is given on Saudi Arabia, with special focus on the higher education sector and its development, and on university library systems. The present situation of three selected university library systems is examined in comparison with library standards, together with the attitudes of users and professionals to .different aspects of the library systems and their quality. The methodology used was descriptive and analytical research, and data were gathered by distribution of three sets of survey questionnaires. An analysis and discussion of survey results is presented in chapters on library use, user satisfaction and user views. A summary of findings and an indication of both general and specific recommendations complete the thesis.