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The Federal Depository Library Handbook (Handbook), describes requirements of Federal depository libraries, both legal and those prescribed by the Government Printing Office (GPO). Additionally the Handbook provides guidance to libraries on how they can meet the requirements of the Federal Depository Library Program (FDLP).
This information was previously found in two publications. Instructions to Depository Libraries contained the FDLP requirements while practical guidance for carrying out FDLP operations was in the Federal Depository Library Manual and its supplements. The Instructions and Manual are superseded by the Handbook.
In accepting the privilege of Federal depository status for their libraries, directors agreed to abide by all the laws and requirements governing officially designated depository libraries. Recognizing this, chapter 2 of the Handbook outlines the legal requirements and each chapter of the Handbook includes a section for library administrators. These sections are also consolidated in Appendix C.
Depository coordinators MUST ensure that all personnel involved in any aspect of depository operations are aware of the obligations of depository libraries and of the importance of the Handbook. Depository staff should review the Handbook on a regular basis and any questions can be directed to askGPO.
The first edition of the Handbook was published in October 2007. The Handbook is an online living publication and will be updated as needed. Depository personnel are welcome to offer revisions. All suggestions will be reviewed, and the library community will be notified of changes in content.
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