Federal Depository Library Program (FDLP)
The Walker Library is a selective Federal Depository Library. The Regional Depository for Tennessee is at the University of Memphis which receives 100% of FDLP materials. Depository libraries do not own the material, but are required to preserve it, provide access, and make it available for use.
The Government Printing Office (GPO) distributes materials to depository libraries based on specific selection criteria. Depository titles are assigned a Superintendent of Documents (SuDoc) classification number by GPO. SuDoc classification is based on government agency rather than subject.
MTSU has been a depository for federal government publications for over 100 years (since 1912.) Government publications include a wide variety of information resources. Depository materials are located throughout Walker Library in various formats. In recent years, the library has reduced the amount of new tangible materials it receives and has focused on providing online access to government information.
Federal depository materials can be used in the library by all MTSU students, faculty and staff and the general public. Much of the material also circulates, but there are some restrictions depending on format or patron status.
Federal depository items are found in various locations in Walker Library. Many items can be found in the main stacks or in the Reference collection. Materials shelved by Superintendent of Documents (SuDoc) number are found on the first floor behind the periodical volumes near the Tutoring Spot. Microfiche are located on the 2nd floor near the Makerspace and are filed by SuDoc number. Additionally, many publications are available online.
The Walker Library provides the public with free access to government information available on the internet without age or residency restrictions in accordance with the FDLP's guidelines and MTSU's Information Technology Resources policy.
