Honoring Our Heroes

October 27, 2026

Every year on October 28, National First Responders Day honors the brave firefighters, police officers, paramedics, EMTs, and dispatchers who run toward danger to keep our communities safe.

While first responders regularly handle structure fires and medical emergencies, some of their most complex calls involve hazardous material spills and chemical leaks. In those high-stakes moments, split-second decisions save lives—and the 2024 Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG2024) serves as their indispensable field manual.

Available through the U.S. Government Publishing Office (GPO) Bookstore, the updated guidebook gives initial responders the critical tools they need on scene:

  • Instant Hazard Identification: Rapidly look up dangerous chemicals by UN ID number or material name using color-coded sections.
  • Refined Safety Protocols: Clear, step-by-step guidance on personal protective equipment, fire control, and emergency first aid.
  • Updated Isolation Distances: Revised evacuation radio to keep both response crews and nearby public communities safe.

This October 28, show your support by thanking local first responders, donating to responder charities, or reviewing home emergency plans with your family. Let’s honor the bravery and technical expertise of our nation’s heroes by supporting the vital safety tools that bring them home safely every shift.

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 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).

4 Comments | Department of Transportation, Emergency Response, FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency | Tagged: , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Essential GPO Publications: 3 Best-Selling Reads

October 23, 2026

The U.S. Government Publishing Office (GPO) offers a vast selection of official documents, but a few stand out as essential additions to every bookshelf. These top three best-selling publications offer practical value, official authority, and everyday usefulness:

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

Mastering Global Logistics & Transportation: Inside the Mobility Forum

October 21, 2026

In the fast-evolving world of global logistics and defense, staying ahead of rapid technological shifts is essential for mission success. The Mobility Forum, a popular journal within the defense community, serves as a vital resource for logistics professionals, military leaders, and planners dedicated to navigating safety and innovation in both the air and on the ground.

Through expert analysis, technical updates, and first-hand accounts from diverse Air Force professionals, this informative publication offers practical insight into the key developments shaping modern defense mobility.

What You’ll Discover

  • Cutting-Edge Innovations: Learn how autonomous transportation, advanced technology, and modern sustainment models are revolutionizing air, land, and sea mobility.
  • Real-World Application: Dive into case studies and best practices directly from the field.

Explore More Military Subscriptions

This popular journal is just one of many information-driven periodicals published by the U.S. Air Force, Army, Navy, and Marines. Designed for Active-Duty service members, Reservists, and Veterans alike, these publications deliver valuable perspectives to enhance ongoing service or reflect on past contributions to the U.S. Armed Forces.

Ready to start reading? You can find a military title subscription of your choice by clicking on this link.

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 » | Department of Defense, U.S. Air Force | Tagged: , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

NCUA Resources for Financial Planning

October 14, 2026

October is Financial Planning Month, making it the perfect time to review your money habits—and your local credit union is a smart place to start.

Credit unions offer a secure place to manage your savings, thanks to oversight by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). Through the Share Insurance Fund (NCUSIF), the NCUA fully protects your deposits just like FDIC insurance protects traditional bank accounts.

Whether you’re an account holder looking to understand your coverage or a credit union official seeking mandatory signage, the Government Publishing Office (GPO) makes it easy to access official agency materials.

What you will find in the NCUA collection:

  • Account & Deposit Insurance Guides: Clear breakdowns explaining coverage limits, individual account protections, and financial literacy resources in both English and Spanish.
  • Official Compliance Signage & Decals: Required placards, decals, and posters (such as Equal Housing Lender posters and NCUA Shared Branch decals) for financial institutions.

Browse the National Credit Union Administration Collection on the GPO Online Bookstore to find insurance booklets in English and Spanish, consumer guidance, and official regulatory decals. Take control of your financial future today!

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 » | Consumers, finances | Tagged: , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Honoring 250+ Years of Valor: Navy Birthday

October 7, 2026

Every year on October 13, we celebrate the establishment of the Continental Navy in 1775. For nearly two and a half centuries, the United States Navy has protected freedom of the seas, projected American power across the globe, and produced some of the most compelling stories of courage, innovation, and sacrifice in American history.

Whether you are an active-duty Sailor, a proud veteran, a military history buff, or someone looking to honor the brave men and women serving at sea, dive into official history through the U.S. Government Bookstore’s United States Navy History Collection.

Highlights from the Collection

Published directly by the Naval History and Heritage Command and the Naval War College Press, these primary-source volumes include:

  • Revolutionary Era to Modern Fleet: The evolution from wooden schooners to nuclear-powered aircraft carriers.
  • Pacific Campaigns & Submarine Warfare: Detailed operational studies of major World War II and Cold War engagements.
  • Leadership & Doctrine: Biographies of iconic Admirals and strategic analyses of modern maritime power.

Celebrate this Navy Birthday by diving into the authentic, primary-source stories that built our nation’s maritime legacy.

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 » | Department of Defense, Military History, Naval War College, U.S. Marines, U.S. Navy | Tagged: , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Your Guide to the 119th Congressional Directory

September 30, 2026

Want a clear view into how Congress operates? Look no further than the 119th Congressional Directory (2025–2026). Published by the Joint Committee on Printing, this official resource puts up-to-date contacts, leadership rosters, and agency profiles right at your fingertips.

What’s Inside?

  • Your Representatives: Short biographies, committee roles, and terms of service for every Senator and Representative.
  • The Federal Government: Clear lists of executive departments, independent agencies, the military, and federal courts.
  • Local & International Leaders: Information on U.S. territory governors, the D.C. government, and foreign diplomats.

Why It Matters to Everyone

  • For Government Staff: It is a daily lifeline for prepping for meetings, researching officials, and cutting through bureaucratic noise.
  • For the General Public & Constituents: It is the ultimate tool for civic engagement. It helps you look up your representatives, see which committees they serve on, find contact information for federal agencies, and hold your government accountable.

From political insiders to everyday voters, this directory is a foundational asset for anyone who wants to navigate or understand the nation’s capital.

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 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).

2 Comments | Congress, House of Representatives, Legislative Branch | Tagged: , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

The Air Force celebrates 79 years of keeping America’s skies safe

September 17, 2026

The U.S. Air Force celebrates its birthday on September 18, commemorating the day in 1947 when the National Security Act established the Air Force as an independent military branch. This act solidified the Air Force’s role in national defense, with a core mission of global vigilance, reach, and power.

To help honor the history of airpower and recognize the dedication of the airmen and women who ensure the nation’s security and global aerial supremacy, take a closer look at flight safety through Combat Edge —this month’s popular military magazine feature.

Combat Edge is the official safety magazine published by Air Combat Command (ACC). It stresses the importance of operational safety and risk management through articles grounded in firsthand accounts from personnel. The magazine shares practical knowledge across fighter, bomber, reconnaissance, and support operations, offering a platform to explore real-world insights that support continuous improvement and mission readiness.

With informative, non-regulatory content, Combat Edge delivers valuable context on critical topics:

  • Flight & Ground Safety: Real-world lessons learned from flight line operations, maintenance tasks, and aircrew maneuvers.
  • Risk Management: Insights into identifying hazards, preventing mishaps, and applying proactive safety protocols.
  • Leadership & Professional Development: Stories and strategies aimed at building a well-informed, resilient, and adaptable force.

These field experiences and operational lessons offer direct value to anyone involved in flight operations and focused on safety as Air Priority Number One.

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 » | Department of Defense, U.S. Air Force | Tagged: , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Constitution Week: Honoring the Blueprint of American Democracy

September 14, 2026

Every year from September 17 to September 23, Constitution Week marks a vital moment in our national story. Kicking off with Constitution Day and Citizenship Day on September 17—the anniversary of the document’s signing in 1787—this week offers a dedicated time to reflect on the core principles, rights, and responsibilities that define American democracy.

Whether you are a lifelong civic enthusiast or simply looking to reconnect with the foundations of our government, this observance is an ideal opportunity to explore how this living document continues to shape daily life.

A great resource for learning more during this observance is The Constitution of the United States and The Declaration of Independence (Pocket Edition). Available through the official U.S. Government Bookstore, this compact booklet contains the full text of both founding documents. It serves as a practical, portable way to review the framework of our national government, the division of powers, and the exact processes required for ratification and amendment.

Ways to Get Involved

  • Read the Founding Documents: Pick up the official pocket edition or access digital primary sources through the National Archives to engage with the original text directly.
  • Engage in Educational Programs: Participate in local community debates, historical lectures, or school workshops focused on civic literacy and constitutional history.
  • Explore Online Resources: Utilize digital tools, historical archives, and educational guides provided by national civic organizations to deepen your knowledge of the Bill of Rights.
  • Start a Civic Conversation: Discuss key constitutional themes—such as the system of checks and balances—with family, friends, or colleagues to keep meaningful dialogue active.
  • Practice Active Citizenship: Use the week as a prompt to register to vote, research upcoming local ballot initiatives, or volunteer with civic organizations.

By honoring Constitution Week, we do more than look back at 1787; we actively uphold the habits of self-governance necessary to sustain American democracy for generations to come.

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).

4 Comments | Civics and Citizenship, Congress, U.S. History | Tagged: , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Honoring Hispanic Heritage

September 10, 2026

Celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 – October 15) by honoring the rich history, diverse cultures, and valuable contributions of Hispanic Americans. To mark the occasion, the U.S. Government Bookstore features top-selling resources designed to support and inform Hispanic communities.

Featured Study Guides for U.S. Citizenship

Preparing for the Naturalization Test: A Pocket Study Guide (Spanish). A portable, essential resource for anyone preparing to voluntarily become a U.S. citizen. This guide includes complete civics test questions and answers, along with targeted reading and writing vocabulary lists.

Civics Flash Cards for the Naturalization Test. Produced by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), this 100-card deck covers the core facts of American government and history. It is ideal for test preparation or for any citizen seeking a practical civics refresher.

Welcome to the United States: A Guide for New Immigrants. Designed to help individuals transition into life in the United States, this comprehensive guide provides practical information on community services, housing, health, education, and legal rights.

Meaningful Ways to Get Involved

  • Support Local Commerce: Shop at Hispanic-owned businesses and dine at local Hispanic restaurants.
  • Build Community: Join a local Hispanic or Latino community group or volunteer with organizations supporting Hispanic families.
  • Advocate for Change: Attend local government meetings to voice support for initiatives that benefit Hispanic communities.

Let’s celebrate the vibrant traditions, history, and achievements of the Hispanic community!

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

American Legislative Trailblazers: The Diverse Voices of Democracy 3-Volume Bundle

August 28, 2026

Understanding the full story of American self-governance requires examining the groundbreaking lawmakers who expanded democratic representation from the Capitol floor. The U.S. Government Publishing Office (GPO) is proud to feature the Diverse Voices of Democracy Set, an authoritative, three-volume reference bundle tracing more than two centuries of legislative milestones through the lives of African American, Asian and Pacific Islander American, and Hispanic American lawmakers.

Compiled by the Committee on House Administration using primary sources, official congressional records, and rare archival photography, these heirloom-quality volumes move beyond basic textbook summaries to deliver deeply personal stories of resilience, policymaking, and progress.

Included in the Bundle:

  • Black Americans in Congress, 1870–2022 (Paperback)
  • Asian and Pacific Islander Americans in Congress, 1900–2017 (Hardcover)
  • Hispanic Americans in Congress, 1822–2012 (Hardcover)

An essential reference bundle for libraries, classrooms, and collectors. Whether you are an academic librarian equipping a research facility, an educator building a civic studies curriculum, or a history enthusiast curating a home study, this 3-volume bundle serves as both an indispensable reference library and a striking display collection.

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).

Leave a Comment » | Congress, House of Representatives, Legislative Branch, Minorities | Tagged: , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Keep Your Home Safe: A Quick Guide to Preventing Lead Poisoning

August 26, 2026

Protecting your family from household lead is one of the most vital steps you can take for their long-term health. If your home was built before the late 1970s, toxic lead-based paint could be lurking beneath years of modern paint layers.

Lead is a heavy metal that poses severe risks—especially to children under six. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), lead exposure can cause permanent cognitive impairments, learning difficulties, and damage to the nervous system and kidneys.

Common Lead Sources in the Home

  • Pre-1978 Paint: Older homes often contain hidden lead-based paint layers that peel, flake, or create toxic dust.
  • Pre-1986 Plumbing: Older pipes, solder, and fixtures can leach lead directly into your drinking water.
  • Contaminated Soil: Soil around home foundations often collects lead from exterior paint chips or historical vehicle emissions.
  • Imported Goods: Certain traditional medicines, antique toys, cosmetics, and imported glazed cookware can still contain lead.

Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home from the EPA provides important information on protecting your family from lead. This easy-to-read booklet highlights the dangers of lead from paint, dust, and soil in and around your home, which can be dangerous if not managed properly. For example, children who seem healthy may have dangerous levels of lead in their bodies. The EPA recommends testing children for lead levels even if they appear healthy. Also, disturbing surfaces with lead-based paint or improperly removing it can increase the risk to your family. (The Spanish version is available here.

Taking proactive steps today ensures a safe, healthy living space for your family tomorrow.

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).

Leave a Comment » | Consumers, Environment, Environmental Protection Agency | Tagged: , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Celebrate Aviation Week with Essential FAA Reads

August 20, 2026

Take flight during Aviation Week, August 19–25, by exploring the rich history and essential tools that have driven human flight from short beach hops to hypersonic travel. Whether you are a pilot, air traffic controller, maintenance technician, or history enthusiast, official publications from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), available from the Government Publishing Office (GPO) Online Bookstore, offer foundational knowledge and valuable industry insights.

The following essential publications are must-have technical resources, regulatory standards, and operational frameworks for aviation professionals and safety personnel across all aircraft types.

The Pioneers and Aviation Pilot Knowledge History Set: This 3-book GPO exclusive bundle combines aviation history with essential flight knowledge. First Flight: The Wright Brothers and the Invention of the Airplane explores the pioneering origins of powered flight. The Advanced Avionics Handbook covers modern aircraft systems and cutting-edge tech for students and professionals. Pilots’ Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge delivers core principles, regulations, and skills for trainees and educators.

The Flight & Aviation Innovation History Set: Master the future of flight with this 3-book GPO exclusive set covering foundational engineering and essential operations. Powering Flight: NASA’s Contributions to Aircraft Propulsion details propulsion breakthroughs for engineers and insiders. Plane Sense: General Aviation Information breaks down safety and operational essentials for pilots and owners. Balloon Flying Handbook serves as the FAA’s primary training guide for lighter-than-air physics and techniques.

Secure these authoritative sets today directly from the GPO Online Bookstore to honor aviation’s courageous past and prepare for its audacious future.

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 contributor Ed Kessler is a Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication and Information Sales program 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 » | Aviation, Federal Aviation Adminstration (FAA), Innovation, Transportation and Navigation | Tagged: , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

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