The Communications, Energy, and Paperworkers Union of Canada assessed literacy learning needs. In focus group discussions, members were asked their perception of such needs in the face of changes in the workplace and society; local union officers (LUOs) were asked how they saw the role of unions in supporting members' literacy learning; employers were asked about change and its impact on workers' use of and need to improve skills. Members and employers agreed on these key changes that affected essential skill use: technological change, computerization, global market competition, consumer demand for quality, the aging workforce, safety and other regulations, and reorganization of work. A questionnaire solicited more information. Findings indicated members and employers attached highest priority to oral communication as a learning need, but the employer or union local rarely offered training; members selected computer skill development as a learning preference; employers acknowledged pervasive use of computers and provided training; members identified reading comprehension as a learning preference and identified materials they found difficult; essential skills were noticeably lower on the frequency of education and training offering scale; and LUOs knew they needed to advance awareness about essential skills development among their membership and believed they had resources to position them to undertake a partnership with an employer. (A French version is provided.) (YLB)