Focusing on community education and development, this literature review analyzes the problem of determining community and individual needs; the issue of relevance to the community; the meaning of need (as opposed to interests or desires); and the use of community studies, listening posts, surveys, and power structure analysis as evaluation tools. The issue of relevance in particular is examined with respect to teaching versus action, disciplines versus the interdisciplinary approach, static programs, and the setting of program objectives. An 88 item annotated bibliography touches on adult basic education, vocational education, rural development, social change, professional continuing education, training design, participation, and other pertinent concerns. ERIC ordering information and a list of publications by the ERIC Clearinghouse on Adult Education are also included. (LY)