Government documents and materials are vital sources of information that provide insight into a wide range of topics, including politics, economics, history, and social issues. These materials are produced by government agencies and officials at local, state, and federal levels and are available to the public for research and analysis. Government documents and materials provide a wealth of information that cannot be found elsewhere, including statistical data, policy documents, historical records, and legal materials.
The Federal Depository Library Program (44 U.S.C. § 19), administered by the U.S. Government Publishing Office, was established by Congress in 1813 to ensure that the American public has access to Government information in depository libraries throughout the U.S. and its territories. The James E. Walker Library has been a Federal Depository Library (FDLP #0585) since 1912. In 2022 we began intentionally seeking out and incorporating FDLP materials into the Distilling, Fermenting, and Brewing Collection. Due to our commitment in preserving the original physical item, we applied and became a GPO Preservation Steward in March 2023. Preservation Stewards retain specified tangible depository resources for the length of the partnership agreement. Preservation Stewards also take on the additional responsibilities for preserving, maintaining, and conserving that material.
Collections: FDLP Preservation Steward; Distilling, Fermenting, and Brewing; Early Tennessee Imprints