Ideas in the report have developed in many discussions among literacy practitioners and advocates.1 Many governmental policy documents and reports, and a number of civil servants, have been consulted. Some information has been drawn from a survey conducted by the Canadian Alliance for Literacy, a coalition of national organizations that seek to promote a more literate Canada. Reports of provincial and territorial representatives to the Movement for Canadian Literacy Board have been very helpful.

Although the report includes substantial information on the literacy issue and literacy work in francophone milieux, it must be said that it predominantly expresses activities and issues in anglophone Canada. An encompassing account of literacy work across Canada is yet to be written.

1 A number of literacy practitioners, advocates and researchers have read various drafts of the report, and added clarity, and removed errors. I am indebted for improvements to Behnaz Behnia, Richard Bonokoski, Susan Hoddinott, Nancy Jennings, Stan Jones, John MacDonald, Robin Millar, Ian Morrison, Brad Munro, Kjell Rubenson, Audrey Thomas, Aisla Thompson, Serge Wagner, Tom Walker, and Cathy Wright. Thanks are also due to numerous civil servants who have provided information and reviewed specific sections of the manuscript. The final responsibility of course is my own.