This document examines the activities and resource needs of local basic skills programs; examines the major national organizations that lead, coordinate, and provide technical assistance to local providers; suggests how new organizations can assist and support the delivery of adult literacy services; and recommends public and private sector action needed to expand the capacity of local adult literacy programs and national organizations. The document begins with an executive summary and an introduction outlining the study's purpose and design. The second chapter, entitled "Local Literacy Programs," discusses program patterns, expansion needs, and fiscal requirements for expansion. The section on program patterns covers setting student goals, recruiting students, training tutors, instructional approaches and materials, measuring learning, rewarding achievement and service, collecting data, facilities, collaboration, and fund-raising. The third chapter describes the major national organizations. The fourth chapter discusses ways to involve new organizations and agencies. The fifth chapter contains recommendations for the federal and state governments, business, and industry to help literacy programs. A list of literacy programs whose staffs were interviewed for this study concludes the document. (CML)