Introduction
The Federal Depository Library Program (FDLP) was established by Congress to ensure that the American public has access to its Government’s information (Title 44, United States Code, Chapter 19). For more than 140 years, depository libraries have supported the public's right to Government information by collecting, organizing, and preserving it, and by providing assistance to users.The FDLP is based upon three principles:
- With certain specified exceptions, all Federal Government information products shall be made available to Federal depository libraries. Federal depository libraries shall be located in each State and U.S. Congressional District in order to make Government information products widely available.
- That Federal Government information in all media shall be available for the free use of the general public.
Chapter 19 of Title 44 of the United States Code is the authority for the establishment and operation of the FDLP. Materials received in deposit by libraries remain the property of the U.S. Government. Libraries become the custodians of these resources. The legal responsibilities of Federal depository libraries fall into the broad categories of access, maintenance, and service:
- Providing for free public access to Federal Government information products regardless of format. Providing for the proper maintenance of the Federal depository materials entrusted to the individual depository's care.
- Providing service to meet Government information needs of the local community and surrounding area.
As these three areas touch on nearly every aspect of library operations, the Instructions to Depository Libraries are issued in order to give more specific guidance to documents staff. The Instructions are organized into nine chapters. Each chapter deals with a specific aspect of the depository operation.
All depositories must conform to the procedures set forth in these Instructions.
The Instructions to Depository Libraries are the official rules and regulations of the Federal Depository Library Program. Depository librarians must ensure that all personnel concerned with any aspect of the depository operation are made aware of the importance of the Instructions. Depository staff should review the Instructions at least semiannually. Any questions can be sent via askLPS at http://www.access.gpo.gov/su_docs/fdlp/tools/asklpsin.html
or by e-mail at asklps@gpo.gov .
If you would like an additional copy of the Instructions, an electronic version can be found at http://www.access.gpo.gov/su_docs/fdlp/pubs/instructions/ .
Documents staff may request additional written materials or information by mail, telephone, or e-mail to:
Chief, Depository Services
U.S. Government Printing Office
Library Programs Service (SLLD)
Washington, DC 20401
Phone: (202) 512-1119
Fax: (202) 512-1432
E-mail: asklps@gpo.gov |
