Because the vitality of libraries as educational agencies depends on wise actions by public decision makers and others who provide resources to educational institutions, the American Library Association has identified four realities for effective educational reform within a learning society: (1) learning begins before schooling, (2) good schools require good school libraries, (3) people in a learning society need libraries throughout their lives, and (4) public support of libraries is an investment in people and communities. Much public attention is focused on recommendations for changes in elementary and secondary schools. Yet, as "A Nation at Risk" clearly states, proposals for educational reform must recognize the need for lifelong learning. Libraries are an essential part of lifelong learning, and all people in a learning society deserve access to good library service. Within the last year more than half the state legislatures have increased state aid for schools, and over half have raised high school graduation requirements. States and communities have established uncounted commissions, committees, and task forces to examine and improve their schools. Attention to elementary and secondary schools constitutes an important beginning. However, with few exceptions, recognition of the value of libraries is missing from these educational reform efforts. Now it is essential to recognize these four realities of educational reform and act on them. (DMC)