This study aims to investigate the current states of branch systems of public libraries in Korea and to find implications to improve such systems. Nationwide surveys to directors and branch directors of public libraries were conducted along with case studies on major local areas. It was revealed that the duties for each branch were rationally assigned in functional perspectives. The result also revealed that the branch systems of provincial office of education were planned in an inappropriate manner without considering their functional attributes. Other findings included (1) public library branches were necessary to be located in local governments based on the hierarchal structure of the following: a central library, a main local branch. a mobile library unit. public mini-library and deposit station ; (2) Saemaul mobile library and private mini-library service were the most effective when they were provided in conjunction with public library branches.