The literacy problem in the Cleveland area and recommendations for dealing with it are presented in this booklet. Beginning with a definition of literacy and a discussion of the human costs and economic consequences of illiteracy, the booklet advocates reducing adult illiteracy, eliminating basic skills deficits, and improving communications skills among the workforce. Recommendations include: (1) forming a coalition to increase public awareness, develop programs, and set standards; (2) developing a Greater Cleveland compact recording the agreement that businesses will provide job opportunities for high school students; (3) developing a literacy agenda on state competency standards; (4) developing trained paid and volunteer tutors; (5) expanding existing literacy services; (6) attending to the social service needs of youth and adults receiving literacy training; (7) reallocating existing resources and developing new sources of support from the private sector; and (8) making suggestions involving the support of literacy to elected officials, business and social organizations, and schools and individuals. Sources for combatting illiteracy--including programs, organizations, and published materials--are included in the appendixes. (EL)