August 7, 2026
August is National Immunization Awareness Month, a perfect reminder to update your travel health records—starting with the official WHO International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICV), also known as the Yellow Card, available from the GPO U.S. Government Bookstore.
Why You Need It
- Mandatory Entry Requirements: Many countries strictly require official proof of specific vaccinations before granting border entry.
- Essential Protection: Stamping your ICV for required and recommended shots (including Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and routine boosters) prevents trip-disrupting illnesses and keeps your journey moving smoothly.
3 Steps to Get Travel-Ready
- Check Destination Rules (4–6 Weeks Ahead): Review requirements early, as many vaccines need weeks or multiple doses to build full immunity.
- Get Your Yellow Card Stamped: Ensure your healthcare provider logs and signs your required vaccines on an official WHO ICV form.
- Pack It with Your Passport: Keep this bilingual (English/French) medical passport stored directly alongside your travel passport.
Celebrate International Immunization Awareness Month by scheduling your travel health consultation today!
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 » | 
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Consumers, Family, health, Health care, NIH, Travel and Tourism | Tagged: CDC, Certificate of Vaccination, immunization month, International Certificate of Vaccination, International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis, National Immunization Awareness Month, NIAM, Travel and Tourism, vaccination, vaccines, yellow card | 
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Posted by Trudy Hawkins
August 3, 2026
Happy Coast Guard Day! Every August 4th, we honor the courage and service of our maritime guardians while recognizing the tools that keep them mission-ready—including the U.S. Coast Guard’s newly released Incident Management Handbook (IMH) 2025.
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.
Key Updates of the 2025 IMH:
Designed as an accessible job aid rather than a policy document, the handbook helps personnel apply the Incident Command System (ICS) during operations. Since eighty percent of response operations share common procedures, core guidance is presented up front, while the remaining twenty percent addresses specific scenarios such as oil spills or search-and-rescue cases.
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.
As we celebrate the Coast Guard’s legacy, the 2025 IMH reflects an ongoing commitment to operational readiness and safety across our waterways.
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 » | Department of Defense, Emergency Response, U.S. Coast Guard | Tagged: 2025 IMH, 2025 Incident Management Handbook, Coast Guard, Coast Guard Day, Coast Guard Incident Handbook, IMH 2025, U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Coast Guard Incident Management Handbook 2025, US Coast Guard Handbook | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins
July 29, 2026
On July 30, 1965, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Social Security Act Amendments into law, creating Medicare and Medicaid. These vital programs remain the cornerstone of affordable healthcare for seniors and low-income families—a testament to their enduring role in supporting American lives.
Behind this legacy are the tools and administrative systems that keep healthcare running smoothly. Chief among them is the CMS-1500 form, the standard health insurance claim form developed by the National Uniform Claim Committee (NUCC) and available through the U.S. Government Publishing Office (GPO) online bookstore.
While electronic billing is required under the Administrative Simplification Compliance Act (ASCA), the CMS-1500 serves as an essential paper alternative for non-institutional providers, equipment suppliers (DMERCs), and state Medicaid agencies holding a waiver.
Why This Tool Matters Today
- Saves Rural & Small Practices: Prevents steep digital overhead from crushing independent or geographically isolated practices, ensuring they receive timely federal reimbursement.
- Protects Patient Care: Prevents “medical deserts” by allowing clinicians under hardship to keep accepting Medicare, ensuring elderly and disabled patients retain access to trusted local doctors and supplies.
- Standardizes Billing: Translates complex diagnoses and treatments into a universal format shared across Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurers—reducing errors and keeping funding steady.
As we mark July 30th, taking a few moments to manage these essential federal benefits provides peace of mind and keeps healthcare accessible for millions.
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 » | aging, Department of Health & Human Services, Health care | Tagged: Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, CMS, CMS Medicare, CMS-1500, Medicaid, medicaid health insurance, Medicare, Medicare CMS, medicare health insurance | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins
July 21, 2026
The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, and with increasing life expectancies and complex medical needs, prolonged care has never been more critical. The Borden Institute, a renowned name in military medical research and education, has just released a significant new publication, simply entitled Prolonged Care.
Prolonged Care bridges a critical gap in the 6–72-hour post-injury phase of casualty care, particularly in resource-limited, non-surgical settings like battalion aid stations. It equips non-surgeon prehospital providers with the essential skills to manage stabilized combat casualties requiring extended care before evacuation to advanced medical facilities.
It signals a fresh and comprehensive deep dive into the multifaceted aspects of extended medical care. This new resource is highly anticipated, given the institute’s commitment to evidence-based practices and focus on the unique challenges faced in various operational environments.
It addresses key areas such as:
- Strategies for managing long-term illnesses and injuries: This could include best practices in treatment, rehabilitation, and maintaining quality of life over extended periods.
- Resource allocation and logistical considerations: These are especially relevant in situations with limited resources or during prolonged deployments.
- The psychological and emotional impact on patients and caregivers: Recognizing the significant burden and offering insights into support and resilience.
- Ethical considerations in prolonged care scenarios: Navigating complex decisions that may arise during long-term treatment.
This publication promises to be a valuable resource for medical professionals, caregivers, policymakers, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the complexities of prolonged medical care. Don’t miss out on this new book from the Borden Institute.
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 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).
2 Comments | U.S. Army, U.S. Army Medical Department | Tagged: Army Medical books, Army Medical Center, army medicine, Borden Institute, Prolonged Care | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins
July 16, 2026
Consumer credit card debt in the U.S. is a growing concern. Despite recent efforts to curb rising interest rates, many Americans struggle to manage their credit card balances. The Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) latest Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), now available from the Government Publishing Office (GPO) Bookstore, gives consumers the right to access their credit reports, dispute inaccuracies, and know who has accessed their credit information.
Here’s a summary of what the FCRA does:
- Protects the accuracy of your credit information: You have the right to dispute any errors on your credit report. The FCRA requires credit reporting agencies to investigate disputes and remove inaccurate information.
- Gives you control of your credit report: You can get a free copy from the three major credit reporting agencies (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) once a year. You can also dispute errors online or by mail.
- Limits who can see your credit report: Credit reporting agencies can only share your credit report with creditors and other businesses with a permissible purpose, such as landlords, insurers, and employers.
Now is a great time to familiarize yourself with the provisions of the FCRA to protect your rights as a consumer.
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.
Click here to purchase the Fair Credit Reporting Act
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, finances | Tagged: credit card debt, credit report, credit reporting, Fair Credit Reporting Act, FCRA, Federal Trade Commission, FTC | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins
July 14, 2026
Get ready for an awe-inspiring year under the stars in 2028! We are thrilled to announce that the New! Astronomical Phenomena for the Year 2028 publication is now available from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore.
This small, yet incredibly helpful booklet is a must-have for every skywatcher. It contains general interest material preprinted directly from The Astronomical Almanac, a definitive guide published jointly by the U.S. Naval Observatory and His Majesty’s Nautical Almanac Office. Released two years in advance, it gives you a head start on planning your celestial observations.
The Astronomical Phenomena for the Year 2028 is packed with essential information, including:
- Exact dates for Solar equinoxes, solstices, and phases of the Moon.
- Detailed eclipse maps, so you can pinpoint the best viewing locations for these spectacular events.
- Dates for various planetary phenomena, offering insights into when to spot your favorite planets.
- Visibility and magnitudes of the planets, helping you identify them in the night sky.
- Dates for some religious and civil holidays, for broader chronological context.
- Chronological eras and cycles.
- The equation of time and declination of the Sun.
- Accurate sunrise/sunset and moonrise/sunset times to perfectly time your observations.
- The precise position of Polaris, the dependable North Star.
The cosmos has an abundance in store for skywatchers in 2028! From dazzling meteor showers to captivating lunar and solar eclipses and intriguing planetary alignments, this publication provides the precise data you’ll need to mark your calendar. Get ready to witness the magic of events like annual meteor showers that streak across the night sky and the rare beauty of lunar eclipses, where the Moon is transformed by Earth’s shadow.
Be sure to secure your copy of the Astronomical Phenomena for the Year 2028 to ensure you have all the precise dates and times for these and many other celestial occurrences that will surprise and delight you throughout the year.
Happy stargazing!
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 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 » | Naval Observatory, Science & Technology, U.S. Navy | Tagged: Astronomical Almanac, Astronomical Phenomena, Astronomical Phenomena for the Year 2028, Nautical Almanac, U.S. Naval Observatory | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins
July 7, 2026
The FAA Safety Briefing is your ultimate guide to aviation safety. Published by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), this essential journal provides critical updates on major rule changes and proposed regulations. It also offers vital refresher information on flight rules, maintenance airworthiness, avionics, accident analysis, and other key industry topics. It is a must-have resource for pilots, air traffic controllers, aircraft maintenance personnel, and anyone dedicated to ensuring safety in the skies.
Why Subscribe?
The FAA Safety Briefing offers a unique blend of expert analysis, engaging storytelling, and practical guidance. Whether you are a seasoned pilot or just starting your aviation journey, this publication provides valuable insights to help you:
- Enhance your safety awareness: Stay informed about emerging safety issues and learn how to mitigate potential risks proactively.
- Improve your piloting skills: Gain valuable knowledge and practical tips from experienced aviators and safety professionals.
- Stay current with industry best practices: Keep pace with the latest technologies and procedures to optimize your flight operations.
Sign up for a subscription today!
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).
Leave a Comment » | Aviation, Department of Transportation, Federal Aviation Adminstration (FAA) | Tagged: Aviation safety, FAA, FAA Briefing, FAA Safety Briefing, FAA Safety Briefing magazine, Federal Aviation Administration | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins
July 1, 2026
The Fourth of July holiday is a profound time for our Nation to reflect on the blessings of being a beacon of hope and democratic freedom. As we mark an extraordinary milestone—America’s 250th anniversary—there is no better time to dive into American history and remember why we celebrate Independence Day.
This Independence Day, you can hold history in your hands with the official Pocket Constitution and Declaration of Independence from our U.S. History Collection. It is the perfect way to reconnect with the foundational texts that started it all 250 years ago on July 4th, 1776.
Beyond our founding documents, the U.S. Government Bookstore’s Pre-U.S. Colonial & American History collection offers unique insights into our Nation’s earliest days, including an extensive selection detailing the diverse histories of American Indian tribes. You can also bring this vibrant era to life with a beautiful set of colorful, detailed posters depicting pivotal events from the Revolutionary War, such as the American Navies, 1775-1783 (Poster), the British Redcoat, 1775-1783 (Poster), and The Continental Soldier in the War for American Independence (Poster).
Be inspired by the rich, complex stories of those who fought to ensure our Union was free and explore how the early American landscape evolved. To honor, enjoy, and memorialize America’s historic semiquincentennial, start your journey back to the days that shaped our Nation by visiting https://bookstore.gpo.gov/catalog/pre-us-colonial-american-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: 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 » | U.S. Constitution, U.S. History | Tagged: 4th of July, America 250, America’s 250th Anniversary, American history, Fourth of July, Independence Day, U.S. history | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins
June 22, 2026
In December 1972, with the Vietnam War at a diplomatic stalemate, the U.S. military launched Operation Linebacker II. Sending waves of B-52 bombers directly into the world’s most formidable air defense network, this intense 11-day campaign became a masterclass in crisis management and rapid tactical evolution.
Now, the official, unfiltered account of this historic operation is available to the public.
To understand what truly happened in the skies over North Vietnam, read Linebacker II: A View from the Rock. Published by the Department of Defense and available through the U.S. Government Publishing Office (GPO) Bookstore, this riveting narrative details the high-stakes reality of the campaign:
- The Brutal Reality: Initial American sorties faced devastating losses from dense surface-to-air missile (SAM) salvos.
- The Pivot: Instead of sticking to a broken blueprint, planners adapted on the fly—radically changing flight paths, electronic countermeasures, and strike timings in real time.
- The Outcome: By neutralizing critical infrastructure, Linebacker II bypassed a decade of attritional warfare and forced a return to the peace table.
Beyond the Cockpit
A View from the Rock goes beyond the decision-makers to highlight the immense collaboration of the thousands who lived it. It captures the staggering coordination among military branches, the logistical grit of ground crews, and the raw courage of crew members flying into radar traps. With no existing playbook for an operation of this scale, these service members wrote it themselves. Perfect for military history enthusiasts and anyone inspired by resilience under pressure.
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).
Leave a Comment » | Department of Defense, Military History, U.S. Air Force, Vietnam | Tagged: A View from the Rock, Linebacker II, Linebacker II: A View from the Rock, military history, military history vietnam, U.S. military history | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins
June 18, 2026
The 2026 Economic Report of the President is now available from the U.S. Government Publishing Office. Combined with the Annual Report of the Council of Economic Advisers, this year’s edition delivers an authoritative analysis of recent economic developments and a forward-looking forecast for the U.S. economy.
Key Focus Areas in This Year’s Report Include:
- The Economic and Fiscal Benefits of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act
- Rebuilding America’s International Trade Policy
- Achieving Energy Dominance to Power American Prosperity
- The Revolution of Artificial Intelligence
- Protecting and Rebuilding the American Dream of Homeownership
- The Year in Review and the Years Ahead
To read the full findings and explore the data driving these economic policies, purchase your copy directly from the GPO Bookstore 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: 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 » | Federal Budget, Presidents, The White House, U.S. Economy | Tagged: budget, Economic Report, Economic Report of the President, Economic Report of the President 2026, economy, Presidents, U.S. Economy | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins
June 16, 2026
Whether you work in Washington or are just a citizen trying to see how your government operates, the 119th Congressional Directory, 2025-2026, is an invaluable tool. Created by the Joint Committee on Printing, this official guide gives everyone quick, accurate access to the inner workings of the federal government.
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 own representatives, understand which committees they sit 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: 119th Congress, 119th Congressional Directory, 119th Congressional Directory 2025-2026, Congressional Directory, US Congress | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins
June 12, 2026
Flag Day is a holiday celebrated in the U.S. on June 14th. It commemorates the adoption of the United States flag by the Second Continental Congress on June 14, 1777. In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson issued a proclamation officially establishing June 14 as Flag Day. On August 3, 1949, National Flag Day was established by an Act of Congress.
Did you know the first flag that flew over our nation before it became free of the British Empire, where our state stars are, was a United Kingdom emblem? Our Flag can help you better understand how far we’ve come as a nation. It briefly describes the history of the American flag and sets forth the practices and observances appropriate to its display. The publication also features a section on the Flags of States and Territories.
Ideas for a joyful Flag Day celebration:
- Display your flag proudly! Make sure it’s in good condition and flying correctly in accordance with the U.S. Flag Code.
- Learn more about the history of the American flag. There are many great resources online or at your local Federal Deposit Library Program (FDLP).
- Play patriotic music and sing along!
- Attend a local Flag Day parade or ceremony.
No matter how you choose to celebrate, National Flag Day is a great time to reflect on the meaning of the American flag and what it represents.
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).
Leave a Comment » | Congress, Libraries, Teachers and teaching, U.S. History | Tagged: American Flag, Flag Day, national flag, National Flag Day, our flag | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins
govbooktalk
Trudy Hawkins
Government Book Talk 