The Federal Depository Library Program (FDLP) is a network of regional and local (referred to as selective) libraries who subscribe to and collect publications from the Government Publishing Office (GPO). The depository program was mandated in 1895 and expanded in 1962, eventually numbering over 1100 participating libraries. Its purpose is to provide ready access to federal documents to the public, a goal that is reflected in its motto "Keeping America Informed."
David Kearns
Federal Depository Library Manager
Office Hours:
Monday - Friday,
7:30 to 3:30
Contact: 706-737-1749
Email Address
The Government Publishing Office (GPO) mission is "Keeping America Informed as the official, digital, and secure source for producing, preserving, and distributing official Federal Government publications and information products for Congress, Federal agencies, and the American public." The FDLP Website provides resources useful to participating FDLP libraries and the general public, including guidelines, training, calendar events, and tools for educators. The GPO also maintains the GPO Bookstore through which the general public may purchase personal copies of government publications.
Government Documents are located on the second floor of Reese Library. They are classified using the Superintendent of Documents System (SuDoc), that is designed around the Departments and Branches of the Federal Government.
For example, publications from the Department of Agriculture have call numbers that begin with "A" and Department of Homeland Security have call numbers that begin with "HS." As with everything, there are exceptions, so do not hesitate to ask for help locating a document in the shelves.
In 1962, Congress approved The Depository Library Act which granted Members of the House of Representatives the authority to nominate a library in their district to be a depository. Rep. Robert G. Stephens, Jr. (D) 10th District of Georgia, nominated the Augusta College Library to be a Selective Depository. Selective Depositories receive the FDLP Basic Collection and are free to subscribe to as many or as few other publications that meet their constituents' needs, . In addition to print media, the FDL collection at Reese Library holds microfiche, cd, dvd, and online documents published by the GPO.
In 2023, the FDLP transitioned to a primarily digital program, dramatically reducing printed items. Augusta University was one of twenty depositories across the country chosen to continue receiving printed copies of Senate and House Documents and Reports, among other titles. In 2024, Augusta University further cemented its commitment to the Depository Program by becoming GPO Partners through a Preservation Steward agreement.