A lack of efficiency and effectiveness among many students today in either oral or silent reading, a major mode of modern communication, is cited. It is reasoned that constructive steps must be taken toward improving reading abilities in both the high schools and colleges. The author refers specifically to steps that should be taken in Ohio by the Ohio College Association. Five modern myths concerning reading that have contributed to the indifference being shown toward reading in secondary schools are reviewed and refuted. Reading is not a unitary, simple, closed process; there are serious reading problems in high school and college; modern visual and auditory media have not supplanted the need for reading skills; speed reading does not solve the "volume problem" nor does it assist serious study; and the public will support reading programs. A bibliography is included. (NH)