This exploration of the growing field of literacy voluntarism encompasses the literature, history, trends, and issues of the volunteer role in literacy programs. The majority of the literature is characterized as descriptive and program specific; the research is found to lack definition and theoretical foundation. The literature also reflects differing opinions on ideologies, professionalization of volunteers, methodology, and effectiveness. An overview of current delivery systems focuses on two national organizations--Literacy Volunteers of America and Laubach Literacy Action, the limited use of volunteers in adult basic education programs, the National Adult Literacy Initiative sponsored by the U.S. Department of Education, the role of public libraries, and the Coalition for Literacy. The next section attempts to characterize literacy volunteer programs by (1) describing a dichotomy of individually oriented and community-oriented programs; (2) elaborating a four-part model--mass literacy through existing structures, literacy for immediate needs, movement-directed literacy, and literacy for political action; (3) listing six criteria for community-based literacy education; and (4) synthesizing these typologies into five variables--purpose, scope, organizational setting, professionalism, and finance. Specific programs illustrating each of these facets are then described. The next section addresses administrative concerns and policy considerations. These issues are discussed in terms of the five variables. A concluding section lists six common assumptions about literacy voluntarism and recommends further research to improve policy and practice. A reference list and bibliography are included. (SK)