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Information literacy is described by some as the critical literacy of the 21st century. As information and communications technologies (ICTs) develop rapidly and become increasingly complex, with learners often struggling to engage with them, information literacy is seen as pivotal to the pursuit of lifelong learning. This paper investigates key models and standards associated with information literacy in the educational sectors, and discusses in detail the role information literacy education plays in transforming our information society into a learning society. Information literacy has the potential to transform the learning process into one that will empower learners, and create independent, self-directed, life-long learners. The paper presents five case studies from around the world which explore information-literacy education and its link to educational and societal changes. The paper then discusses key factors that are necessary for the implementation of information-literacy education, which are: cultural change and changes in educational values; the establishment of policy and guidelines; teacher education and staff development; and partnerships between key personnel.