This document traces the history of volunteerism in the literacy field, discusses the current role and use of volunteers, and assesses the potential and the limits of volunteerism as a current and future means for overcoming illiteracy in the United States. (The major conclusion is that the current delivery system of literacy activities can go no further without additional funding.) The introduction reviews the changing standards of literacy and volunteers and literacy. The second chapter describes the pioneering volunteer-managed agencies--Laubach Literacy Action and Literacy Volunteers of America--and mentions legislative action for literacy. The third chapter covers the adult basic education program, community-based organizations, libraries, correctional institutions, and churches. New frontiers envisioned in the fourth chapter include the growth of professionalism, changes in the role and use of volunteers, corporate volunteerism as a force, a trend toward cooperation among the providers, and funding. The fifth chapter, entitled "The Potential of Volunteers," discusses the myths, advantages, and limitations of volunteerism. The document ends with a list of 13 references. (CML)