This paper outlines the range and types of distance education on which information is potentially available. Different types of institutions involved in distance education are identified, and the major concerns of distance teaching institutions worldwide are briefly examined. Information users and their information needs are identified, and types of primary and secondary information are described. Finally, problems of access are discussed together with some solutions, with particular reference being made to the experience of the International Centre for Distance Learning. Sources of information to satisfy user's needs include institutions which operate distance teaching programs and college libraries. The former generates prospectuses, handbooks, or calendars designed to guide students in their choice of courses, as well as data on students that may be used for research for internal purposes; the latter provides access to databases as well as printed materials. (DB)