While the community college is a longstanding institutional type within the U.S., the success of this model has recently garnered international attention. As countries outside the U.S. grapple with issues regarding access and affordability of higher education opportunity, the concept of the community college has gained traction. This issue explores: * The global expansion and development of the community college model in various countries and regions around the world, * Insights into the establishment and sustainability of these institutions in other countries through research and analysis, and * Case studies that focus on the development and implementation process of community colleges amid various social, political, and economic contexts. This is the 177th volume of this Jossey-Bass quarterly report series. Essential to the professional libraries of presidents, vice presidents, deans, and other leaders in today's open-door institutions, New Directions for Community Colleges provides expert guidance in meeting the challenges of their distinctive and expanding educational mission.