Literacy Volunteers of America (LVA) affiliates were surveyed regarding standardized and informal assessment devices they currently used and their frequency of use and effectiveness. A literature review focused on assessment tools and their limitations. The survey was sent to 39 LVA affiliates in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Missouri, Ohio, and Wisconsin; 26 responses were usable, a return rate of 67 percent. Conclusions were as follows: (1) informal test measures were used more frequently than standardized measures; (2) a combination of standardized and informal assessments was preferred; (3) frequencies of use of standardized tests did not necessarily mean users were satisfied with test effectiveness; (4) users seemed satisfied with informal assessment measures; (5) much assessment in volunteer literacy programs surveyed involved professionals; (6) nearly all affiliates assessed students initially and on a yearly basis; and (7) about half assessed exiting students. Recommendations included development of an assessment plan using informal intake materials, acquisition of more effective standardized measures, and use of professionals to perform assessments. (Appendixes include a list of 17 references and the survey instrument.) (YLB)