Government Documents
Your Source for U.S. Government Information
How are Government Documents Arranged?
Federal Government publications in our collection are arranged by Superintendent of Documents classification number (SuDocs). Where possible, publications are grouped together by issuing agency (Microfiche and Maps are shelved separately). Therefore, it is helpful to know the issuing agency when searching for U.S. Government documents that may be on our shelves. In SuDocs classification, call numbers are arranged as follows:
The SuDocs call number above (AE 2.108/2:2007-2008) is for The United States Government Manual (2007-2008), which is also available online. The first part of the call number represents the issuing agency, the National Archives and Records Administration. The second part of the call number represents the subordinate bureau within the agency, the Federal Register Office. The third component of the call number designates the title of the publication. The final piece of the call number is the year of publication (in case the publication is current for 2007-2008).
Where to Start
The following resources can be a good place to begin your search.
General Government Information Websites
- USA.gov
- The official web portal to the United States Government.
- GPO Access
- Provides online access to a variety of government publications. Maintained by the Government Printing Office.
- American FactFinder
- A user-friendly site to quickly find population, housing, economic, and geographic data.
- The Charters of Freedom at the National Archives
- Explore the Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and Bill of Rights at this National Archives website.