Within the last three years numerous inquires for information on oil shale have been received by the Bureau of Mines. These inquiries have been increasing to such an extent that it is has seemed advisable to issue a short paper prior to the publication of a bulletin on the subject, giving a general discussion of the subject and a comprehensive list of references so that those interested in the details of obtaining oil from shale can find additional information without much difficulty. Some of those who desire information are interested only in general discussion of the subject, or are not in a position to refer to books and articles describing the industry. The material for this paper is largely derived from published information on oil shale. Much of the information is obtained from the books and articles mentioned in the list of references and has been compiled with the intent of furnishing information to those not interested in all the details.