Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is OpenNet?
OpenNet is a web site supported by the Department of Energy’s Office of Classification to provide easy, timely access to recently declassified documents and other related information, in support of the national Openness Initiative. In addition to DOE documents declassified and determined to be publicly available after October 1, 1994, citations to older agency document collections are included. For more information see Opennet Scope.
2. What is Openness?
Openness is a set of policies by which DOE recognizes and affirmatively seeks to fulfill its obligations to provide the public with accurate and complete information about its activities to the maximum extent consistent with protection of national security and with other societal objectives, such as protection of personal privacy.
3. Where can I get copies of documents?
Every document in the data base has a document location field. This tells you where you can get the document if there is not a link to the electronic full text. See “How to Order” for a list of the locations with most of the documents.
4. Where can I get a list of Department of Energy (DOE) reading rooms?
There are many DOE reading rooms around the country. Some are general in content, and some are program specific. You can get current lists by searching the DOE home page or a web search tool like Google for “DOE reading rooms”. Here are a few:
5. Is this database mandated by Executive Order or other law?
On April 17, 1995, President Clinton signed the new Executive Order 12958, "Classified National Security Information." The Order reflects the principle of openness in government. It gives the public unprecedented access to previously classified government information. The latest amendment as of June 1, 2006, is Executive Order 13292
6. Are there other similar databases of declassified documents maintained by other U.S. government agencies?
The Executive Order applies to all Federal government agencies, so there are many similar databases. A few examples are:
7. What kind of additional help will your office provide if we have questions or problems?
We will be glad to help you in any way we can. For administrative and policy questions, contact Evelyn Self at 301-903-8004 or evelyn.self@doe.hq.gov. For technical questions, contact opennet@osti.gov.