United States Government Manual
The United States Government Manual is available:
- As a regularly updated database
- As an electronic publication, free of charge, on the Government Printing Office's (GPO) Federal Digital System (FDsys)
- As an annual paper publication, for sale through GPO's Superintendent of Documents or for reference at any Federal Depository Library
The United States Government Manual is a special edition of the Federal Register (1 CFR 9.1). It provides comprehensive information on the agencies of the legislative, judicial, and executive branches of the U.S. Federal Government. It also includes information on quasi-official agencies, selected U.S.-participating international organizations, and other Federal boards, commissions, and committees.
In print form, the Government Manual is one of GPO's best selling publications. The online database version of the Government Manual, launched in 2011, is updated regularly to reflect changes in Government throughout the year. Annual print editions are still available for sale through the GPO Bookstore.
A typical agency entry includes:
- A list of officials heading major operating units
- A summary statement of the agency's purpose and role in the Federal Government
- A brief history of the agency, including its legislative or executive authority
- A description of its programs and activities
- Information, addresses, and phone numbers to help users locate detailed information on consumer activities, contracts and grants, employment, publications, and other matters of public interest