This collection of essays is a companion volume to "The Reading Curriculum," both of which have been prepared for a post-experience course in reading development taught at The Open University at the University of London. While the intention is to provide British students with background for a course in the teaching of reading, a number of the essays are from American sources. The volumes are designed to provide (1) an overview of reading; (2) various views on the nature of the reading process; and (3) a review of the many problems in reading development. This particular volume is divided into two parts: "Part I: What is Reading?" presents articles on the reading process, the nature and influence of the media, and the developing abilities of the reader; "Part II: Present Standards and Future Needs" surveys the state of the field and summarizes present and future provisions and needs. (Author/DI)