Microcomputers provide smaller and specialized libraries with attractive, affordable alternatives to mainframe-based systems. By combining state-of-the-art hardware with software packages for libray tasks like serials control, law librarians can solve many problems assoclated with the large volume of serials (70 to 90% of annual acquisitions) that they typically receive. But not all serials control systems are equally sophisticated in their storage or recessing capabilities. This article discusses the major requirements of adequate control of legal serials and analyzes some commercially available systems in light of those requirements.