Read an eBook Week

March 6, 2026

ereaders-ebook-devicesRead an eBook Week, March 1- 7, is a global celebration where publishers and authors offer thousands of original eBooks for free or at deep discounts. It’s the perfect time for book lovers everywhere to dive into the digital world and discover something new.

The U.S. Government Bookstore is joining the celebration by highlighting an extensive collection of low-cost eBooks from various federal agencies. Whether you are looking to become a more informed citizen, researching military history, or important topics related to health, there is a wealth of expert information available at your fingertips.

What You’ll Find in the Digital Collection:

  • Diverse Subjects: Explore titles ranging from personal health and wellness to complex statistical resources.
  • Expert Authorship: Access information written by some of the nation’s most expert authors in their respective fields.
  • Instant Access: Many of these resources are available for immediate download to your favorite device.

Ready to see what’s available? Visiting the online store is the best way to access this array of educational and professional resources.

Visit the collection here: https://bookstore.gpo.gov/catalog/ebooks-pdfs

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCES?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From the US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger Trudy Hawkins is the Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office, supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).

 

Leave a Comment » | Consumers, ebooks | Tagged: , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Peace Corps at 65: Books That Bring the World Home

March 5, 2026

You’re looking good at 65, Peace Corps! Established by President John F. Kennedy on March 1, 1961, the Peace Corps was created to promote world peace and respond to global needs. Since its inception, close to 250,000 Americans have served this moving national legacy.

To celebrate this milestone, explore these publications that capture the heart of the volunteer experience:

  • A Life Inspired: Tales of Peace Corps Service. Discover vignettes of daily life—from preparing food with Guinean women to planting gardens in Honduras. As Beth Genovese (Panama, 2002–2004) writes, the work is about “motivating change in others.”
  • Crossing Cultures with the Peace Corps: Letters from the Field. This collection of raw, honest, and often humorous letters captures the reality of cultural immersion and the personal growth that comes from stepping outside one’s comfort zone.
  • Voices from the Field. An anthology of diverse experiences highlighting the breadth of Peace Corps work in health, education, and agriculture, proving that the spirit of service is a universal language.

The greatest product of the Peace Corps is the Volunteer. They return home as Returned Peace Corps Volunteers (RPCVs), carrying a global perspective and a lifelong commitment to service back to their own communities.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCES?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From the US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger Trudy Hawkins is the Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office, supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).

Leave a Comment » | Foreign Relations, Peace Corps | Tagged: , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Your Front-Row Seat to the Lunar Return

March 2, 2026

As the Artemis II crew prepares to venture further into space than any humans in history, the mission isn’t just about the Moon—it’s about mastering the space between worlds. At the Government Publishing Office (GPO) U.S. Government Bookstore, we provide the official documentation that explains exactly how that journey is possible.

Before the crew can reach the Moon, they must navigate the complex weather of our solar system. A definitive guide: The Sun, the Earth, and Near-Earth Space: A Guide to the Sun-Earth System explains the solar activity that NASA scientists monitor to keep the Artemis crew safe from radiation and solar flares. It is an essential read for anyone looking to understand the mechanics of the “Near-Earth” environment.

Whether you are an educator or a space enthusiast, the GPO Bookstore serves as a premier resource for educators and enthusiasts alike, offering official NASA publications and expert data on the science and strategy behind lunar exploration.

Follow the mission with official Federal Government space exploration resources.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THIS RESOURCE?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From the US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger Trudy Hawkins is the Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).

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Posted by Trudy Hawkins

The GPO Style Manual: The Researcher’s Gold Standard

February 26, 2026

Celebrate Library Lover’s Month by mastering the definitive guide to professional publishing: the GPO Style Manual. While its roots stretch back to 1894, this manual remains more relevant than ever in today’s digital age.

Produced by the U.S. Government Publishing Office, this manual has evolved from a federal rulebook into an essential reference for librarians, researchers, and editors worldwide.

Why is it a professional essential today?

  • Uniformity & Authority: In an era of information overload, GPO standards provide the instant official credibility needed for academic and federal reports.
  • The “Economy of Words”: Originally built to save on printing costs, its rules now help writers trim digital clutter to communicate complex data with maximum efficiency.
  • Modern Technical Rigor: From navigating U.S. government acronyms to formatting complex technical tables, it solves the niche hurdles that general style guides ignore.

In professional editing, the GPO Style Manual isn’t just a book; it’s the foundation of clarity.

Ready to upgrade your editorial arsenal? There is currently a 25% discount available for those looking to add this definitive reference to their bookshelf today. Enter coupon code GPO25 at checkout.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THIS RESOURCE?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From the US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger contributor Ed Kessler is a Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publications and Information Sales Office.

Images and additional content provided by Government Book Talk Editor Trudy Hawkins. Trudy is the Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office, supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).

Leave a Comment » | Digital Publishing, Government Printing Office (GPO), Libraries, Teachers and teaching | Tagged: , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Navigating the Grid: How GPS Works (Poster)

February 19, 2026

Whether you’re navigating a cross-country road trip or just trying to find the nearest coffee shop, the Global Positioning System (GPS) is the invisible hand guiding your journey. But have you ever wondered how a tiny chip in your phone knows exactly where you are on the planet?

The U.S. Government Publishing Office (GPO) Bookstore offers a “How GPS Works” poster that breaks down this invisible tech into a stunning visual guide.

GPS relies on a constellation of at least 24 satellites orbiting high above Earth. The process boils down to these three steps:

  • Signals: Satellites beam out their location and a precise time stamp.
  • Timing: Your device calculates how long the signal took to arrive at the speed of light.
  • Trilateration: By measuring distances from at least four satellites, your receiver pins down your exact latitude, longitude, and altitude.

The poster serves as an excellent resource for:

  • STEM Educators: A foundational tool for teaching physics, geometry, and aerospace technology.
  • Aviation & Maritime Hubs: A reliable reference for pilots, sailors, and logistics professionals.
  • Tech Enthusiasts who appreciate the engineering behind everyday tools.

Ready to master the grid? You can pick up the official How GPS Works poster directly from the GPO Bookstore now.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THIS RESOURCE?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger Trudy Hawkins is the Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).

Leave a Comment » | Government Printing Office (GPO), Science & Technology, Technology, Telecommunications | Tagged: , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Celebrate Presidents’ Day with the Words That Shaped History

February 13, 2026

Initially established in 1879 to honor President George Washington, Presidents’ Day (the third Monday in February) now celebrates the legacies of every leader who has held the nation’s highest office.

Want to go beyond the textbooks? The best way to understand an administration is to read the words of the Presidents themselves.

Get the primary sources

You can explore the official record of the American presidency through the GPO Government Bookstore. A standout resource is the Public Papers of the Presidents series. Produced by the National Archives, this collection features:

  • Public Messages & Statements: Direct insights into policy and leadership.
  • Official Speeches: The landmark addresses that defined eras.
  • Historical Context: Primary source documents from administrations.

This year, celebrate the holiday by diving into the documents that built the United States.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCES?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger Trudy Hawkins is the Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).

Leave a Comment » | Executive Branch, Presidents, The White House, U.S. History | Tagged: , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

NEW! U.S. Sentencing Commission Guidelines Manual

February 11, 2026

The United States Sentencing Commission Guidelines Manual is a comprehensive document that provides federal judges with recommendations on appropriate sentences for individuals convicted of federal crimes. It’s a tool designed to promote consistency and fairness in sentencing across the country. The new U.S. Sentencing Commission Guidelines Manual 2025 is now available for order from the U.S. Government Bookstore.

The Guidelines cover the following offenses:

  • Offenses Against the Person
  • Basic Economic Offenses
  • Offenses Involving Public Officials and Violations of Federal Election Campaign Laws
  • Offenses Involving Drugs and Narco-Terrorism
  • Offenses Involving Criminal Enterprises and Racketeering
  • Offenses Involving Commercial Sex Acts, Sexual Exploitation of Minors, and Obscenity
  • Offenses Involving Individual Rights
  • Offenses Involving the Administration of Justice
  • Offenses Involving Public Safety
  • Offenses Involving Immigration, Naturalization, and Passports
  • Offenses Involving National Defense and Weapons of Mass Destruction
  • Espionage and Related Offenses
  • Offenses Involving Food, Drugs, Agricultural Products, Consumer Products, and Odometer Laws
  • Offenses Involving Prisons and Correctional Facilities
  • Offenses Involving the Environment
  • Antitrust Offenses
  • Offenses Involving Taxation

It uses a points system to calculate the recommended sentence for a particular offense. The points are assigned for factors such as the severity of the offense, the defendant’s criminal history, and the presence of aggravating or mitigating factors.

Understanding the Sentencing Guidelines Manual can be crucial in preparing for and mitigating the impact of a crime involving you, your associates, or your loved ones. It’s important to be informed and prepared for any potential situation.

HOW DO I OBTAIN THIS RESOURCE?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Trudy Hawkins is Government Book Talk Editor and Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office, supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).

Leave a Comment » | Congress, Crime and Justice, Law Enforcement | Tagged: , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Black History Month: African American Legacies

February 5, 2026

February serves as a powerful reminder of the visionary leaders who have helped shape American history. While we often reflect on presidential history this month, we also honor influential leaders and community builders—such as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.—whose dedication redefined the American landscape and expanded the promise of freedom for all.

Black History Month is a dedicated time to reflect on a heritage as vast as it is diverse. From the strategic brilliance of the Underground Railroad to the groundbreaking legislation passed by pioneers in the halls of Congress, the story of African American achievement is inextricably woven into our Nation’s history.

The U.S. Government Publishing Office (GPO) Bookstore serves as the official chronicler of these triumphs. Our curated African Americans Collection offers a deep dive into the individuals who moved the needle of progress—from military service to the highest levels of elected office.

Featured Publications:

Whether you are an educator, a student of history, or a civic-minded citizen, we invite you to explore these publications celebrating Black History.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCES?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From the US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger Trudy Hawkins is the Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office, supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).

Leave a Comment » | African Americans, Congress, Minorities, U.S. History | Tagged: , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Citizenship and Immigration Resources

January 30, 2026

Becoming a U.S. citizen is a monumental milestone. To help you navigate the journey with confidence, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) provides official, easy-to-use study materials. The following best-selling resources provide essential information for individuals seeking to become American citizens.

Preparing For the Naturalization Test: A Pocket Study Guide. If you were not born in the United States, naturalization is the process by which you can voluntarily become a U.S. citizen. To become a naturalized U.S. citizen, you must pass the naturalization test. This pocket study guide will help you prepare for the naturalization test. It provides civics test questions and answers, along with reading and writing vocabulary, to help you study.

Civics Flash Cards for the Naturalization Test. There’s no better way to learn the basics of the U.S. naturalization test than this 100-question and answer deck of flash cards. These updated civics flash cards will help you study for the U.S. naturalization test. Whether you are an immigrant reviewing facts for the naturalization test or an individual seeking a refresher on American government and history, this flash card set is a great educational tool. Also available in Spanish.

Why USCIS publications are helpful:

  • Accurate and Reliable: These publications from USCIS provide the most up-to-date and accurate information.
  • Test-Specific: The easy-to-understand resources cover the topics tested on the naturalization interview, including:
    • U.S. history and government: Learn about key events, documents, and principles that shape the United States.
    • Civics questions: Prepare for the oral civics test by studying the 100 questions and answers.
    • English language skills: Improve your reading, writing, and speaking abilities through practice exercises.

By studying and utilizing the available resources from the USCIS, you can improve your chances of passing the citizenship test and achieving your dream of becoming a U.S. citizen.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCES?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From the US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.  Email orders to ContactCenter@gpo.gov

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger contributor Ed Kessler is a Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publications and Information Sales Office.

Images and additional content provided by Government Book Talk Editor Trudy Hawkins. Trudy is the Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office, supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).

Leave a Comment » | Civics and Citizenship, Hispanics, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services | Tagged: , , , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

The New U.S. Coast Guard Incident Management Handbook 2025 is Here!

January 21, 2026

Big news for maritime safety! The new U.S. Coast Guard Incident Management Handbook (IMH) 2025 is now available. This updated guide builds on the firm foundation of previous versions, especially the 2014 handbook, to boost the Coast Guard’s incident response capabilities and strengthen partnerships.

Why a New Handbook?

The maritime world is constantly changing. From complex cyber threats to the need for better teamwork with national and international partners, the demands on the Coast Guard’s incident management system are more dynamic than ever. The 2025 IMH tackles these modern challenges head-on, adding the latest National Incident Management System (NIMS) and Incident Command System (ICS) best practices.

It is designed to assist Coast Guard personnel in using the ICS during response operations. The IMH is intended to be an easy reference job aid for responders. It is not a policy document, but rather guidance for response personnel. During the development of the IMH, it was recognized that eighty percent of all response operations share common principles, procedures, and processes. The other twenty percent of response operations are unique to the type of incident, such as a search and rescue case or an oil spill. The handbook is laid out so that the generic information applicable to all responses is presented up-front. 

Updates and Highlights of the 2025 IMH:

  • Alignment with Updated NIMS Doctrine: This document incorporates the latest changes to ensure standardized response protocols across federal, state, and local partners.
  • Enhanced Response Strategies for Severe Weather: Provides comprehensive guidelines for severe weather events and Presidentially Declared Disasters to improve preparedness and operational effectiveness.
  • Cyber Incident Response Integration: Includes updated protocols for managing cyber-related events, emphasizing cybersecurity measures for protecting critical infrastructure.
  • Utilization of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS): This section highlights the role of UAS in improving situational awareness, data collection, and response efficiency.
  • Focus on Responder Resilience: This approach emphasizes critical incident stress management (CISM) and responder resilience, offering resources to support personnel’s mental health and well-being.

The U.S. Coast Guard Incident Management Handbook 2025 shows the service’s commitment to readiness and excellence. It’s a proactive step to adapt to a changing operational environment and ensure the safety and security of our waterways. Understanding and using this new handbook will be vital for all responders and maritime professionals.

HOW DO I OBTAIN THIS RESOURCE?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger Trudy Hawkins is the Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).

Leave a Comment » | Department of Defense, Emergency Response, U.S. Coast Guard | Tagged: , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Best Sellers of 2025: 3 Essential GPO Publications

January 16, 2026

The U.S. Government Publishing Office (GPO) has released its official Best Sellers of 2025—the essential documents every American needs. These top three publications stand out as the most practical reads for your bookshelf this year:

U.S. Constitution (Pocket Edition). A must-have for civic-minded individuals, this portable edition contains the U.S. Constitution and the Declaration of Independence. It serves as a definitive reference for understanding the framework and operation of our national government. Ideal for students, teachers, and anyone engaging in civic discussions.

Renovate Right. For those living in or working on homes built before 1978, this guide is an essential safety tool. It provides critical facts about lead hazards and outlines “lead-safe” work practices to protect your family during repairs or renovations. Ideal for homeowners, DIYers, and landlords.

International Certificate of Vaccination (The “Yellow Card”). Recognized by the World Health Organization, this is your official medical “passport.” It is used to document required vaccinations and is often mandatory for entry into countries with specific health risks. Ideal for international travelers and missionaries.

Get Your Copies Today! These vetted, affordable publications are the top picks for 2025. You can find them all at the official GPO bookstore.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCES?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From the US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800. Email order inquiries to caqcc@gpo.gov.

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger contributor Ed Kessler is a Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publications and Information Sales Office.

Images and additional content provided by Government Book Talk Editor Trudy Hawkins. Trudy is the Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office, supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).

Leave a Comment » | Civics and Citizenship, Consumers, Libraries, Travel and Tourism | Tagged: , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

The Map of the Airwaves: Celebrate Public Radio Broadcasting Day

January 13, 2026

Today, January 13, 2026, marks Public Radio Broadcasting Day. While digital media evolves, radio remains a uniquely reliable lifeline, reaching listeners where the internet cannot. To celebrate, we are highlighting a favorite for enthusiasts and professionals alike: the NEW 2025 United States Frequency Allocations: The Radio Spectrum Poster.

Available through the Government Publishing Office U.S. Government Bookstore, this best-selling poster is the definitive visual guide to our nation’s airwaves. It transforms the invisible infrastructure of communication into a clear, color-coded map.

The poster utilizes color codes to illustrate the parts of the radio spectrum allocated to various types of radio services, including amateur (ham) radio, commercial radio, television broadcasting, radio navigation, mobile, satellite, and others. Essential facts about the poster include the following:

  • The definitive and most current official copy of the 2025 US Radio Spectrum Frequency Allocations, crucial for regulatory adherence and operational planning.
  • Substantial size for optimal readability: 39″ x 27″ (inches).
  • Expertly printed using fade-resistant, premium archival inks on high-grade 100 lb. premium matte paper. This ensures vibrant colors, crisp detail, and long-term durability.
  • Proudly Made in the USA.
  • Unframed, offering flexibility for the buyer to customize their display.

For those who want to dive deeper into the rules of the road, the Manual of Regulations and Procedures for Federal Radio Frequency Management is also available to explain the “how” behind the map.

Radio Milestones

  • 1906: First radio broadcast by Reginald Fessenden.
  • 1910: On January 13, the first public radio broadcast featured a live performance from the Met.
  • 1920: KDKA in Pittsburgh begins the first commercial broadcasts.
  • Today: Radio remains the most accessible medium, requiring no subscription or high-speed data to keep the public informed.

Whether you’re a hobbyist or a professional, the Radio Spectrum Poster is the perfect way to appreciate the technology that keeps us connected.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCES?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.  Email orders to ContactCenter@gpo.gov

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger Trudy Hawkins is the Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).

6 Comments | Department of Commerce, Telecommunications | Tagged: , , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

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