Consists of four parts: 1. An introduction and detailed analysis of economic theory relating to the local economy, especially to theory concerning "basic" vs. "derivative" sectors, and the "income-multiplier" effect. By Palmer, Kang, and Thompson. 2. "Multiplier of Selected Medium-Sized Communities in the Great Plains Area" (Kang). Study applies multiplier theory to 12 selected Great Plains area cities (including Ogallala, and Holdrege, Nebraska). Presents detailed 1950 statistics on employment, by type of industry, and type of agricultural production, and on employment by "derivative" vs. "basic" character. 3. "The Multiplier in Lancaster County, Nebraska" (Thompson). Presents month-by-month data covering 1953-1955 showing "localized" (derivative) and "nonlocalized" (basic) employment in Lincoln and Lancaster County, and analyzes the income-multiplier factor through these data. 4. "Two Reactions to Population Growth" (Strawn and Palmer). Compares the economic characters of 2 Nebraska cities, York and Sidney. Includes data on population changes, construction activity, school enrollment, taxes, municipal indebtedness, retail sales, utility usage, birth and death rates, and other factors. Compares changes in "basic" and "derivative" sectors of the local economies. Includes a list of manufacturers and the numbers they employ.