A mechanic servicing or repairing an automobile often utilizes a shop manual or other technical books while working and must refer to the book repeatedly at the various stages of the repair process. While working on the engine, for example, from above, it is possible to support the manual on a fender or a workbench, which is not always an ideal arrangement, but when working beneath the car he is generally on his back, and to refer to a manual laid on the floor from this position, often with his hands occupied, is extremely awkward if not impossible. The mechanic is thus in need of a mobile book stand which will support a shop manual or the like on an incline alternatively at about shoulder level when he works on the car from above, and at, or slightly above, floor level when he is working beneath the car.