The Superintendent of Documents uses an alpha/numeric classification system which assigns a SuDoc number to each publication. This system classifies each document by the agency or department that issues the document, not by subject. For example SuDoc classification A is for materials issued by the Agriculture Department. Consequently it is impossible to browse the collection since each agency/department issues documents on various subjects.
Explanation of the SuDoc Classification System
Quick Tips:
The University of Memphis Library has been a Federal Depository since 1966. At that time we received about 65% of the materials that were offered through the Federal Depository Library Program. In 1989 the Library became the Regional Depository for the state of Tennessee. From that time forward the Library receives 100% of the offered materials. There are 22 other depository libraries in Tennessee listed here. In order to be certain if the Library owns a document, several places must be checked depending upon the date.
Catalog Classic For all government publications published from 1989 to present.
Marcive WebDocs For all government publications published from 1976 to present.
Monthly Catalog Of U.S. Government Publications For Materials prior to 1976. (A paper catalog of government publications located in the Government Publications Department Reading Room)
OTHER FINDING AIDS
The Government Publications department has special locations for certain materials that are not shelved in the stacks by SuDoc number. This is done for a number of different reasons, but usually for the reason of format.
Government Periodicals (GovPer) Stack ranges 48 thru 50
Census Stack ranges 51 thru 52 & Reading Room
Maps Map Library & Microform Area
CD's Microform area & Range 52
Pamphlets Microform area
International Information Reading Room
Federal Register & CFR Reading Room
The Complete Guide to Citing Government Information Resources. Diane L. Garner
REF J9.5 G37x 1993 (located behind the RIS Desk)
Citing U.S. Congressional Documents
Brief Guide to Citing Government Publications
Legal Research & Citations in the USA
