Noting that family literacy can work effectively to break the cycle of undereducation, this book examines the history of the national family literacy movement, discusses the role of the National Center for Family Literacy (NCFL), and presents guidelines for designing and developing a family literacy program. The book's introductory section presents a historical overview of family literacy. The remainder of the book is presented in seven chapters: (1) "Why Family Literacy?," defining family literacy, describing components of a family literacy program, and outlining program goals; (2) "Assessing the Need for Family Literacy in Your Community," including sample phone surveys, and the link to welfare reform; (3) "Creating Collaborative Partnerships"; (4) "Program Design and Anticipated Outcomes"; (5) "Elements of Design: Putting the Pieces in Place"; (6) "Strategies for Success"; and (7) "Journey to Success," highlighting testimony before a Senate committee from a former family literacy student. Three appendices describe NCFL projects and program adaptations, provide case study examples of how family literacy programs meet the needs of the welfare-to-work population, and present questions to guide the development of a family literacy action plan. (KB)