The University of Memphis Libraries has been a Federal Depository Library since 1966 and a Regional Depository Library since 1989.
The Government Publications Department is located on the first floor of the Ned R. McWherter Library at the University of Memphis. The University Libraries at the University of Memphis has been a selective depository for federal documents since 1966 and a Regional Depository for the state of Tennessee since 1989, serving Tennessee’s 9th Congressional District. The Libraries receives materials through the Federal Depository Library Program. There are 18 other Selective Depository Libraries in Tennessee.
The Federal Depository Library Program is based on an agreement between the Government Publishing Office (GPO) and participating libraries nationwide to make U.S. government information, regardless of format, accessible to the public, and to assure future access to this information under the provision of U.S. Code Title 44 Chapter 19. The participating depository library receives government information free of charge from GPO and, in return, agrees to make this information freely accessible to the public.
As the Regional Depository for the state, the Libraries receives all federal documents in a variety of formats distributed by the Government Publishing Office.
In 1974, the University Libraries became a depository for state of Tennessee documents distributed by state departments and agencies under Tennessee Code § 12-6-107.
With a mission to serve the University of Memphis community and beyond, the Libraries is committed to assisting all who wish to access Government Publications without restriction of use.
Six computer workstations located in the Learning Commons area on the first floor are available for public use during library hours. Community Users must obtain a free Special Privileges card from the Check Out Desk in order to be logged on by staff at the Research Assistance Desk (RAD). Printing is not available for community users. Therefore, they are advised to bring a jump drive to download information.
For in-person research assistance, stop by the Research Assistance Desk during available hours.
For research assistance specific to government publications or individual appointments, email us at lib_govpub@memphis.edu or call (901) 678-4455.
Remote help including chat, email, research consultations, and research guides are available through the Libraries remote & self-guided research assistance services.
Designed by the Government Publishing Office (GPO), Ben’s Guide to the U.S. Government informs students, parents, and educators about how the Federal Government works.
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