Ontario Rural Literacy is a special interest group of educators concerned with the particular needs of literacy programs in rural areas of Ontario. The group promotes awareness of literacy issues among the general public as well as providing support to member programs. The 12 members of the provincial steering committee represent all regions of Ontario. This report addresses issues specific to rural special projects funded during 1993-94. Rural communities and rural literacy programs have distinct geographic, economic, social, and employment characteristics that create barriers to teaching, learning, and program development. These barriers include isolation; increased expenses due to travel, long distance, and reduced numbers of clients; limited support services; negative connotation of "literacy"; limited relevant materials; and minimal research into the literacy programs of rural Ontario. Recommendations for addressing program barriers include: (1) rural representation on government policy-making committees; (2) development of a distinct costing mechanism for rural programs; (3) availability of funds and equipment for effective networking; (4) support for offering a wide spectrum of services; (5) development of relevant materials for rural adult learners; and (6) research concerning the needs of adult learners and barriers to participation in rural Ontario. (LP)