This examination of library involvement in adult literacy programs argues that public libraries had their roots in widespread concern for literacy in the 17th century and traces the development of such programs to the present. Changing definitions of literacy are summarized, and current issues in adult library services are discussed. (EM)

Examines the responses from the state libraries to literacy issues studied in 1985 in two surveys--one of state initiatives compiled as background for the Second National Conference on Urban Literacy, and a survey of the chief officers of state library agencies. The California Literacy Campaign is described in detail. (EM)

Describes American Library Association's involvement in adult and literacy education from support for adult education programs to encourage reading in the 1920s to more recent emphasis on services to illiterates, the disadvantaged, and nontraditional users. Continued support from the association for literacy programs is expected to continue…

Examination of the library-learner dynamic within an environment of change defines literacy broadly and relates it to educational design. Libraries are placed within overall structure of the national education system and resulting cooperative efforts are described, as well as attributes of the adult and related stages of life development. (EM)

Literacy Volunteers of America is described as a grassroots effort that has grown to national proportions. An overview of its development and case studies of library literacy projects in various states are provided, and recommendations are made for continued and future library participation in the literacy effort. (EM)

Focuses on federal efforts to fight illiteracy through library programs. Projects supported by two programs are described: the Library Services and Construction Act Title I Library Services Program, and the Library Research and Demonstration Program. Current federal library literacy activities are examined and ideas for the future are discussed.…

Discusses a demonstration project conducted by the National Commission on Libraries and Information Science to transfer reading development technology developed by the military to adult literacy education. The development and testing of a computer-assisted instruction program for language skills in two library sites and plans for expanded testing…