This manual provides labor education advisors with basic information on adult learners, specifically members of a union, and barriers to lifelong learning. Definitions of adult learners and lifelong learning are first provided. A background section reports that the number of adults representing the rank and file union membership enrolled in lifelong learning courses and programs falls far behind the average for the general adult population. Barriers to education are listed, and characteristics of the worker/student are discussed that distinguish an adult learner, and particularly a full-time worker, from the traditional full-time college-age student. The following general types of barriers to continuing education are then considered: informational (application procedures, program offerings, academic services), cost (tuition, fees, texts and supplies, transportation), institutional (scheduling, lack of program and classes, filled classes, location), time (family, job and union responsibilities), and personal (self-image, feelings of inadequacy). Suggestions for the labor education advisor to use in order to overcome each barrier are offered. Appendixes include information and a chart on adult development and the life-cycle and a bibliography. (YLB)