To counteract the lack of interest in reading prevalent among linguistic minorities, members of the Summer Institute of Linguistics (SIL) encourage the production of written literature by members of minority cultures. Any program of change must first take stock of such beliefs of preliterates as that learning to read is the same as learning a foreign language, reading is a magical means of acquiring prestige and wealth, and reading and writing belong only to the outside world. In addition, experiences with the Totonac people in Mexico point up the need for considering individuals' views about use of their mother tongue versus use of the official language and the effects of language choice on self-image. Minority cultures should proceed gradually from production of materials with entirely familiar content to production of translated materials. The way the Cuiva people of Colombia were taught to read shows that reading can be taught in a way that enhances a people, enabling them to study their own and others' values. Workshops held by SIL members have trained people in many countries in writing, typing, mimeographing, illustrating, and editing materials. Positive results have been noted with regard to reading and writing skills, self-image, and reaction of government officials. (GW)