A r c h i v e d  I n f o r m a t i o n

       FOR RELEASE                                     Contact: Ivette Rodriguez     March 18, 1996                                           (202) 401-0262

Get Adult Education Facts Fast Via Factsline

From home to Hong Kong, you can get information quickly on topics such as what works in family and workplace literacy, volunteer programs, the National Adult Literacy Survey, the use of technology and much more -- by simply dialing (202) 401-9570 from any touch-tone telephone.

Voice messages in the system ask callers whether they wish to request an index of available publication titles and accompanying document numbers. After obtaining the list, callers may request specific titles by dialing the document's five-digit identification number -- along with the fax number for receipt of the document. Up to three publications may be obtained per phone call.

Requested information is automatically sent via fax to the customer after receipt of the caller's telephone request. All documents are faxed free of charge. Customers pay only for the telephone call through their regular phone service.

"We are committed to providing the American public with fast, reliable service and information," U.S. Secretary of Education Richard W. Riley said. "FactsLine is another example of using today's technology to be more responsive to the public and taxpayers."

The FactsLine service was begun in May 1995 by the Office of Vocational and Adult Education's Division of Adult Education and Literacy Clearinghouse. It currently features some 100, ten page or less documents, including fact sheets, research summaries, adult education reference materials, directories, National Adult Literacy Survey reports and newsletters covering a wide range of topics such as adult basic education research, family literacy, English as a second language instruction, correctional education, technology, volunteerism, staff development, teacher training, welfare reform, older persons and adults with disabilities.

"FactsLine provides easier access to our clearinghouse documents," said Acting Assistant Secretary for Vocational and Adult Education Patricia W. McNeil. "It's a great service for people who want some of our shorter documents and want them fast."

FactsLine saves the government time and money as well. Before the service, most clearinghouse documents were mailed or faxed manually, instead of through an automated system. FactsLine frees up staff time for other activities, such as conducting specialized research in response to customer inquiries, and saves postage and handling costs.

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