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Interest in and support for language study has been strengthened in the United States in recent years by the growing recognition that proficiency in more than one language benefits both individual learners and society. For the individual language learner, research has found a positive link between second language proficiency and cognitive and academic ability. Several studies indicate that individuals who learn a second language are more creative and better at solving complex problems than those who do not. Other studies correlate bilingual proficiency with higher scores on standardized tests and tests of both verbal and nonverbal intelligence. A multilingual workforce enhances America's economic competitiveness abroad, helps maintain our political and security interests, and promotes tolerance and intercultural awareness. Although the opportunities that are available for learning languages may vary depending on location, there are many ways to encourage the study of languages in the home, the classroom, and the community. This digest suggests specific ways that parents, teachers, school administrators, policymakers, and members of the business community can foster the learning of languages among children and adults. (VWL)