We present a review of Li-2 and Na-2 triplet states. We summarize experimental results by perturbation facilitated optical-optical double resonance (PFOODR) and all-optical triple resonance techniques as well as other laser spectroscopic results. We review the PFOODR singlet similar to triplet mixed window levels, the hyperfine structure of the triplet states, their predissociation, bound-free transitions in the triplet manifold, and collisional energy transfer within triplet states and between singlet and triplet states. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.