Samaru Public Library is a small but unique establishment in Kaduna State of Nigeria, being financed and administered by Ahmadu Bello University's Department of Library Science, rather than by the government. Since its re-opening in 1968, it has served as a training laboratory for students of the Department. Discusses the training offered, staffing and bookstock situations, type of clientele and funding. Financial constraints have meant that the library has not been able to provide adequate services nor to fulfil its training objectives.