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Researchers have produced an overwhelming number of studies of learning and learners, although most have focused on 'traditional' learning and learners. The goal of this briefing paper was to find out more about adult learning and learners in order to assist adults studying at Palau Community College (PCC) in Koror, Palau. There was a lack of literature about adult learners in the Pacific which suggested areas for action: first, to compile background information on the development of formal education in the Republic of Palau; and second, to carry out a study of adult learning and learners at PCC. To provide data for the second, a survey was in 2001 to the adult learners at PCC whose goals were to obtain formal degrees or certificates. This paper includes a definition and overview of adult learners, a synthesis of the literature that was located on adult learning and learners, and a presentation of the data from the PCC study. To provide a comparison of adult learners generally with their counterparts at PCC, the following subtopics are covered in both the literature review and the PCC study: statistics on adult learners; reasons adults return to school; fields of study chosen by adults; barriers faced by adult learners; and recommendations to assist adult learners in coping with these barriers.