In March 1993, Laubach Literacy Action (LLA) convened a nine-member women's focus group to identify barriers and issues that make it difficult for a woman to achieve her literacy goals. Six new readers and three program administrators participated. A brainstorming session identified an initial set of issues and/or barriers to women who want to improve their literacy skills: child care, transportation, women's work, violence, male attitudes, attitudes of family and friends, culture and tradition, class differences, self-esteem, fear of change, and isolation. The importance of recognizing special needs was also addressed. Women were identified as differing in literacy needs, age, geographical location, race, and marital status. LLA recommended that the following actions be taken by organizations that provide services and resources to women: provide child care and transportation; encourage critical reflection as part of literacy instruction; compensate for school experiences; promote research on women, for women, by women; encourage leadership development of women; develop instructional programs for women only; provide opportunities for women to use computers and other technology; offer diverse support services for women; train staff to work with women; develop cooperative or collaborative relationships; develop gender-sensitive instructional materials specifically for women; encourage advocacy for and by women; and seek funding and allocate resources for women. (Contains 11 references.) (YLB)