Government Resources for Homebuyers

August 7, 2020

Thinking about buying a new home? Existing home owners, real estate brokers, and mortgage providers can all benefit by checking out helpful resources from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). The following publications provide important facts and processes in securing the best loan for you and your family.

Buying a home is exciting and, let’s face it, complicated. A great place to start is Your Home Loan Toolkit: A Step By Step Guide. This booklet can help you make better choices along your path to owning a home. This easy-to-follow guide will take you through the home loan process. It provides interactive worksheets as well as a simple 4-step process to help you estimate key financial considerations. Sections on checklists, research tips, and terms will keep your process on track.

Consumer Handbook On Adjustable Rate Mortgages will help you decide whether an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) is the right choice for you and will help you take control of the home buying process. This publication helps you understand how an ARM works and the risks that come with the variety of ARM products available.

If you are considering purchasing a new home or refinancing an existing mortgage, be sure to check out these helpful publications at the 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.

Visit our Retail Store: To buy or order a copy of any print editions from this collection at GPO’s retail bookstore at 710 North Capitol Street NW, Washington, DC 20401, open Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., except Federal holidays, Call (202) 512-0132 for information or to arrange in-store pick-up(s).

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 contributor Ed Kessler is a Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication and Information Sales program office.

2 Comments | Consumers, Family, finances | Tagged: , , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

World Nature Conservation Day

July 27, 2020

The earth is our home. Regardless of where you live, we all share the same planet. On July 28th, we celebrate 2020 World Nature Conservation Day to focus our efforts on preserving our natural environment and keeping our home, Earth, healthy. The future of life on earth depends on a healthy climate – everything from food production to our favorite vacation spots are affected by the environment.

What can we do today to protect the future?

  • Support local businesses and help your community thrive by finding a local environmental cause to support, which can make a big impact for yourself and neighbors. What Does the U.S. EPA Do to Protect the Environment? is an activity book for young children outlining the different ways The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) protects human health and the environment.
  • Check your own habits to see how earth-friendly you are on a day-to-day basis. Are you following the three “R’s?”: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. EPA’s Consumer’s Handbook for Reducing Solid Waste describes how people can help solve a growing problem, garbage.
  • Share a love of nature with your kids, which can make a huge impact on the rest of their lives. Show your passion for protecting our environment with others and create a big change! The National Park Service (NPS) preserves natural and cultural resources in over 400 units for this generation and future generations. Teaching children to become Junior Rangers supports the mission by exploring, learning about, and helping to protect these areas for future generations. The Junior Ranger Activity Book for Utah’s Capitol Reef National Park is a great activity resource to learn about the park and earn a badge.

Nature conservation means protecting our environment and the wildlife it supports. It includes looking after biodiversity and the health of the planet. Logging, loss of milkweed breeding, climate change, and extreme weather are factors that help explain the decline of the best-known butterflies in North America, the monarch (Danaus plexippus). Read the Conservation Status and Ecology of the Monarch Butterfly in the United States report, which briefly summarizes the monarch’s North American distribution, life history, population, current conservation status, and potential causes of decline.

Isn’t it fun to just let time go by while we admire the beauty of nature and the bountiful gifts we receive? Most of us take our natural surroundings and resources for granted. Widespread damage to the environment in the form of reduced green cover, drought, global warming, and unexpected floods can be avoided. On World Nature Conservation Day, let’s rethink our outlook toward the environment and come up with activities and ideas to help nature.

Each year, the NPS conducts an assessment of the agency’s progress in meeting goals and objectives to lessen the NPS’s impact on the environment and improve human welfare. Read how the NPS is on track to achieve its goals in Green Parks Plan (GPP). The plan is framed around the following 10 sustainability categories and sets ambitious agency-wide goals.

  • Continuously Improve Environmental Performance
  • Be Climate Friendly and Climate Ready
  • Be Energy Smart
  • Be Water Wise
  • Green Our Rides
  • Buy Green and Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle
  • Preserve Outdoor Experiences, Promote Healthy Engagement
  • Strengthen Sustainability Partnerships
  • Foster Sustainability Beyond Our Boundaries
  • Green Our Grounds

Help raise awareness about the conservation of nature and stress the importance of preserving our natural resources. To ensure the well-being of our future generations, it is important that we work towards sustainable development and take care of our environment.

Today, the world urgently needs a new commitment to nature, especially as we recover from COVID-19. Below are additional suggested U.S. Government publications in support of World Nature Conservation Day.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCES?

For the free resources, click on the links above.

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.

Visit our Retail Store: To buy or order a copy of any print editions from this collection at GPO’s retail bookstore at 710 North Capitol Street NW, Washington, DC 20401, open Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., except Federal holidays, Call (202) 512-0132 for information or to arrange in-store pick-up(s).

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 contributor BethAnn Telford is part of GPO’s Public Relations office.

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

Government Resources for July Fourth

July 2, 2020

This year, July Fourth will undoubtedly look a little different than usual. While many fireworks displays and other celebrations have been cancelled this year due to the coronavirus pandemic, there are still many ways to let freedom ring. That includes making a visit to GPO Online Bookstore for some patriotic publications.

On July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress formally adopted the Declaration of Independence, inspiring Independence Day, a day for Americans to come together, celebrate their freedom and display patriotism. As is written by the National Archives, the Declaration of Independence “states the principles on which our government, and our identity as Americans, are based.” This document, which continues to be an inspiration for freedom and equality around the world, declared why the thirteen colonies considered themselves independent from Great Britain. Representatives from all thirteen colonies (New Hampshire, Massachusetts Bay, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia) signed the document. If you want to feel truly patriotic this year, you can purchase a pocket edition of the Declaration of Independence from the GPO Bookstore.

Constitution of the United States and the Declaration of Independence (Pocket Edition) contains two core American democracy documents—the Constitution of the United States of America and the Declaration of Independence. This official primary source document outlines the framework of our National Government. Keep this handy pocket-sized document on you to exhibit your pride for your country … and to add a little patriotism to your already red, white and blue Fourth of July ensemble. This booklet also defines the ratification and amendment ratification process.

The Citizen’s Almanac from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services says “naturalized citizens have played an important role in shaping this country. From Alexander Hamilton to Albert Einstein, foreign-born Americans have contributed to all aspects of society—literature, motion pictures, public service, and athletics, to name just a few.” This almanac, available at the GPO Bookstore, offers information on the history, people, and events that have made the United States a beacon of hope and freedom to the world. This booklet will serve as a reminder of the important rights and responsibilities immigrants will have as a U.S. citizen and is perfect for anyone preparing themselves for taking the Naturalization Test to become a citizen of the United States.

GPO wishes you and your family a safe and healthy July 4th. Happy Independence Day!

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.

Visit our Retail Store: To buy or order a copy of any print editions from this collection at GPO’s retail bookstore at 710 North Capitol Street NW, Washington, DC 20401, open Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., except Federal holidays, Call (202) 512-0132 for information or to arrange in-store pick-up(s).

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 contributor Cat Goergen is the PR Specialist in GPO’s Public Relations office.

2 Comments | Civics and Citizenship, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, U.S. History | Tagged: , , , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Summer 2020: Staying Safe and Healthy at Home

June 23, 2020

Summer celebrations are going to be different in 2020 while the COVID-19 pandemic prevents Americans from enjoying the usual large holiday gatherings and travel. Many families will spend more of the summer at home than ever before. While in our safe havens, we need to make sure that our homes are free from other common hazards, inside and out.

To recognize the importance of our homes as it relates to our health, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has declared June National Healthy Homes Month. According to HUD, most people spend 70 percent or more of their time inside their home, even when not under stay-at-home restrictions. This statistic is reported in the HUD publication Everyone Deserves a Safe and Healthy Home: a Stakeholder Guide for Protecting the Health of Children and Families, available for sale from the GPO Online Bookstore. This book covers a full range of home safety issues including lead paint, allergens, mold, carbon monoxide, radon, unsafe drinking water, household chemicals, pests, and the dangers of slips and falls. Even a single one of these unhealthy housing problems can endanger residents, especially children and the elderly who are more vulnerable. This stakeholder guide is intended to assist health care professionals, teachers, religious leaders, and others who work with families, but it could also be used by anyone wanting to maintain or improve their residence. Each topic is fully explained including what causes the problem and how to prevent and eliminate it. Included is a room-by-room safety checklist for conducting a complete healthy home assessment for your house or apartment.

Everyone Deserves a Safe and Healthy Home: a Stakeholder Guide for Protecting the Health of Children and Families is also available from GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications in Spanish.

There is also a companion publication: Everyone Deserves a Safe and Healthy Home: Protect the Health of Children and Families: a Consumer Action Guide. The consumer action guide provides much of the same information as the Stakeholder Guide in a shorter version for homeowners and renters.

In July, Americans will be mark Independence Day with small, at-home celebrations. Due to COVID-19 precautions, many cities and towns have cancelled traditional Fourth of July fireworks shows. As you plan for the holiday, keep your outdoor activities fun and safe with these publications made available from GPO’s Catalog of Government Publications:

  • Fireworks Fact Sheet (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission). It might be tempting to plan your own fireworks this year, but even legal consumer fireworks can be dangerous. Sparklers burn at very high temperatures and can cause third-degree burns. Illegal fireworks can be deadly. This brochure provides information about using consumer fireworks safely and lists the different types of consumer fireworks permitted in each state.
  • Fireworks Annual Report (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission). For more in-depth study, the Fireworks Annual Report is available for years 2013 to 2018. Each annual issue describes injuries and deaths associated with fireworks during the calendar year, including statistics that break down injuries by age and gender.
  • Grilling Fire Safety (U.S. Fire Administration). This flyer has tips for keeping outdoor cooking in the safe zone. Also available in Spanish.
  • Summer Safety Tips (U.S. Fire Administration). Whether you are camping, swimming, or biking, this flyer will help you do it safely.
  • Summertime Burn Safety (U.S. Fire Administration). This is a quick checklist for preventing and treating the common burn injuries of summer. Also available in Spanish.

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.

For the free resources, click on the links above within this blog post.

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.

Visit our Retail Store: To buy or order a copy of any print editions from this collection at GPO’s retail bookstore at 710 North Capitol Street NW, Washington, DC 20401, open Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., except Federal holidays, Call (202) 512-0132 for information or to arrange in-store pick-up(s).

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 contributor Caroline Hassler is a Supervisory Librarian in GPO’s Library Services & Content Management office.

2 Comments | Consumers, Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Family, health | Tagged: , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Now Available! COVID–19 Pandemic Operational Guidance for the 2020 Hurricane Season

June 16, 2020

Hurricane season is upon us, and this season will be particularly challenging due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As always, communities in the path of a hurricane have to be mindful of the impact a major storm might have on lives and property. This year, there’s a new added dimension. Those who are responding to hurricanes now also need to adhere to safety restrictions such as social distancing and wearing masks, due to the COVID-19 virus.

To help officials prepare for the 2020 hurricane season amid the COVID–19 pandemic, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has released COVID–19 Pandemic Operational Guidance for the 2020 Hurricane Season.

This official guide, now available at the U.S. Government Online Bookstore, brings into focus essential services that help Federal, state, local, tribal, and territorial emergency managers as well as health officials. It offers guidance for how these managers might respond to incidents during the 2020 hurricane season amid the COVID–19 pandemic. It anticipates the unique challenges of disaster operations impacted by COVID–19 and offers planning guidelines for emergency managers. For example the publication outlines prioritization for life safety, life sustainment, and workforce protection. It also explains the delivery of FEMA’s programs to help solve complex problems by maximizing whole-of-community disaster assistance. It also provides guidance, checklists, and other resources to enable emergency managers to best adapt their response and recovery plans.

Also available, Guidance On Preparing Workplaces For COVID–19 features information directly related to workplaces. It focuses on the need for employers of all types of businesses and workplaces to implement safe work practice controls and personal protective equipment (PPE), as well as how to do so.

We can’t control nature’s forces such as hurricanes, nor the emergence of diseases like COVID–19. However, if we make personal commitments to follow professional disaster guidelines and health practices, we can be better prepared.

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.

Visit our Retail Store: To buy or order a copy of any print editions from this collection at GPO’s retail bookstore at 710 North Capitol Street NW, Washington, DC 20401, open Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., except Federal holidays, Call (202) 512-0132 for information or to arrange in-store pick-up(s).

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 contributor Ed Kessler is a Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication and Information Sales program office.

2 Comments | Uncategorized | Tagged: , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Government Resources for Great Outdoors Month

June 9, 2020

June is designated as ’Great Outdoors Month.’ According to the Department of the Interior, you can celebrate this month by “getting out to America’s public lands and waters.” We here at GPO know how tough it’s been to stay at home this spring with the coronavirus pandemic, but one of the best things you can do for your mental health during this time is to get outside. And luckily, many of our national parks are beginning to partially or fully reopen.

The South Rim of the Grand Canyon in Arizona is now open for recreational access with some services. According to the National Park Service, day hiking is now permitted on rim and inner canyon trails, and some visitor facilities are open. Desert View and North Rim remain closed.

A Living Canyon: Discovering Life at the Grand Canyon from the GPO Bookstore describes the diverse wildlife of the Grand Canyon and how plants and animals are adapting as the global climate changes.

The rumors are true … high elevation is likely to affect you differently than your home environment. If you and other family members or friends aren’t used to hiking in high elevations, you’ll want to come extra prepared for hiking the Grand Canyon. Drink lots of water, take breaks if you need to, and protect your skin with sunscreen and hats.

Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado is open, but some facilities and areas remain closed due to COVID–19. According to the National Park Service, beginning June 4, Rocky Mountain National Park will require a timed entry permit or camping reservation to enter the park in a private vehicle between the hours of 6 a.m. and 5 p.m.

Rocky Mountain National Park (Map) from the GPO Bookstore covers the 415 square miles of spectacular mountain views. Use this map to find Trail Ridge Road, which crests at over 12,000 feet and offers many overlooks to experience the subalpine and alpine worlds, along with over 300 miles of hiking trails, wildflowers, wildlife, starry nights, and fun times.

If you live near Yellowstone National Park, you’re in luck. Yellowstone National Park opened its Montana entrances Monday, June 1 at 10 a.m. The Montana entrances include West Entrance (near West Yellowstone), North Entrance (near Gardiner), and Northeast Entrance (near Cooke City).

At Yellowstone, as Naturalist John Muir described it back in the 1880s, prepare to see “Nature at work as a chemist.” With more active geo-thermal features than the rest of the world, Yellowstone is wild and alive. Sure, you’ve heard of the famous Old Faithful. But altogether there are actually more than 10,000 thermal features at Yellowstone, including geysers, hot springs, mudpots, and fumaroles. Here, you’ll experience a rainbow of vivid colors as water flows from hot springs, starting with yellow, then orange and green. The unique activity in the park provides geologists with a glimpse into what goes on thousands of miles beneath the Earth’s surface. In all its bubbling and erupting wonder, Yellowstone has been regarded as a sacred place by the groups of people who have lived near it throughout time. In fact, it’s believed that early Native American visitors to Yellowstone left offerings at thermal features to show their respect.

Purchase the Yellowstone National Trip Planner 2020 to help you navigate the expansive park at over 30,000 square miles connecting land through the states of Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming. This handy 16-page pocket guide provides you and your family with all the essential details to help you plan for a memorable trip.

The GPO Bookstore has these and many other national park resources for you to explore. We hope everyone is staying safe and healthy during these unprecedented times. If you have the opportunity this June, visit a national park near you!

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.

Visit our Retail Store: To buy or order a copy of any print editions from this collection at GPO’s retail bookstore at 710 North Capitol Street NW, Washington, DC 20401, open Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., except Federal holidays, Call (202) 512-0132 for information or to arrange in-store pick-up(s).

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 contributor Cat Goergen is the PR Specialist in GPO’s Public Relations office.

Leave a Comment » | Department of the Interior, National Park Service, National Park Service, Travel and Tourism | Tagged: , , , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

D-Day: Remembering a Pivotal Time in American History

June 5, 2020

American troops approaching Omaha Beach on Normandy Beach, D-Day, World War II.

June 6, 1944, one of the finest hours in America’s military history, takes us back to Omaha Beach.

On this special day in U.S. history, we can all look back and remember the valor and heroic efforts of American and British armed forces. Few Americans have experienced anything like what the brave people who came wading ashore that day did. During this time in history, battles were fought in close proximity. Take a trip back in time to a key moment in America’s military history with the following publications available at the U.S Government Bookstore.

The descriptive narratives in Omaha Beachhead provide a historically accurate portrayal of American military operations in France during the month of June 1944, beginning on June 6th, D-Day, on Normandy France beaches. The publication is extensively documented and prepared by the 2d Information and Historical Service, attached to the First Army, and the Historical Section, European Theater of Operations. Its portrayal of soldiers in combat represents why the Americans who valiantly fought during World War II are often championed as “The Greatest Generation.” These men and women lived through the Great Depression, stood tall, and died or persevered against all odds during World War II.

Experience D-Day troops in action with this two-sided, full color historical D-Day: The 6th of June (map/poster). It presents graphics and chronology of the World War II Normandy Invasion on the coast of France on D-Day, June 6, 1944. It provides actual battle placements of troops, where they came ashore, from Utah, Omaha, Juno and Sword beachheads. The back displays detailed accountings of the action at Utah and Omaha beaches, plus riveting photos.

For more WWII titles, click here.

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.

Visit our Retail Store: To buy or order a copy of any print editions from this collection at GPO’s retail bookstore at 710 North Capitol Street NW, Washington, DC 20401, open Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., except Federal holidays, Call (202) 512-0132 for information or to arrange in-store pick-up(s).

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 contributor Ed Kessler is a Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication and Information Sales program office.

Leave a Comment » | Center of Military History, Department of Defense, U.S. Army, World War II | Tagged: , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Coronavirus and the Workplace: Resources for Knowing Your Rights and Responsibilities during a Pandemic

May 15, 2020

The coronavirus pandemic has taken a toll on many businesses across the country. If you run a business or organization, you’re likely dealing with a lot right now, including doing all that you can to keep your employees safe and healthy. The GPO Bookstore offers resources that can help you out, providing recommended steps to ensure your employees maintain their health during this uncertain time.

In the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has prepared a Guidance on Preparing Workplaces for COVID–19. In it, employers can find steps for reducing workers’ risk of exposure. These include developing an infectious disease preparedness and response plan, developing policies and procedures for prompt identification of sick people, and recognizing the best methods for communicating with employees.

This booklet will help you determine just how at-risk your employees are and what you can do to protect them from being exposed to the virus. It offers guidance on safe work practices. For example, employers should provide emergency responders and other essential personnel with alcohol-based hand rubs containing at least 60% alcohol. It also covers what kinds of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) employees should be wearing. Finally, it provides information on guidance for workers living and traveling abroad.

You may be familiar with the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 (OSHA Act), which was passed to prevent workers from being killed or otherwise harmed at work. The law requires employers to provide their employees with working conditions that are free of known dangers, including coronavirus. Brush up on what is required of you with this next resource.

Workers’ Rights from OSHA describes employer responsibilities, what OSHA covers, employees’ right to a safe and healthful workplace, how to contact OSHA, and more. This booklet explains workers’ rights to file confidential complaints with OSHA, review records of work-related injuries and illnesses that occur in their workplace, receive copies of their workplace medical records, and more. It also provides specific instructions on how to file a complaint, which can be done through the mail, online, or by telephone.

In addition to covering workers’ rights, the booklet details employer responsibilities such as prominently displaying the official OSHA poster, informing workers about hazards, keeping accurate records of work-related injuries, and much more. If you are an employer, check out this handbook to know what’s required of you. Some examples include requirements to provide fall protection, prevent exposure to high levels of noise, and prevent exposure to harmful levels of substances like asbestos and lead.

OSHA covers most private sector employers and employees in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and other U.S. jurisdictions. Employees who work for state and local governments are not covered by Federal OSHA. But they do have OSH Act protections if they work in those states that have an OSHA-approved state plan. Read through the booklet to see if your state or territory has an OSHA-approved program. Federal employees who aren’t sure of their rights should also read the booklet. Finally, this resource outlines those who are not covered under the OSH Act, which includes people who are self-employed, immediate family members of farm employers, and more.

We hope everyone is staying safe and healthy during these unprecedented times.

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.

Visit our Retail Store: To buy or order a copy of any print editions from this collection at GPO’s retail bookstore at 710 North Capitol Street NW, Washington, DC 20401, open Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., except Federal holidays, Call (202) 512-0132 for information or to arrange in-store pick-up(s).

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 contributor Cat Goergen is the PR Specialist in GPO’s Public Relations office.

Leave a Comment » | Consumers, Department of Labor, Jobs and Employment, Occupational Safety and Health Administration | Tagged: , , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

International Nurses Day

May 12, 2020

The International Council of Nurses (ICN) has declared the theme for International Nurses Day 2020, which is celebrated on May 12, “Nursing the World to Health.” It’s a fitting theme, as nurses and doctors are on the frontlines working tirelessly to care for patients with coronavirus. To help honor the important service nurses provide, the Government Publishing Office offers the following titles about the history of nursing.

Realizing the Future of Nursing: VA Nurses Tell Their Story

This series of stories and experiences told directly by Veterans Affairs (VA) nurses, physicians, healthcare staff, and community partners offers personal insights into the medical community serving America’s Veterans. The publication includes moving narratives about how the VA system has improved the quality and safety of Veteran care. The stories are inspiring and illuminating to read. These personal experiences and perspectives create a picture of the individual commitment and dedication, the extreme challenges, and exceptional successes of VA healthcare workers. They are especially comforting to anyone who has served in the VA healthcare system.

Highlights in the History of the Army Nurse Corps

Service is at the heart of these personal stories of nurses−stories of valor and dedication. This resource provides a record of the major events in the proud history of the Army Nurse Corps. Giving recognition to those who serve is heartening to anyone with friends or family members in the Army Nurse Corps. It took new legislation and other significant events to ensure meaningful changes in the Corps. These changes have ensured that the Corps can provide high quality nursing care to soldiers, their families, and retired military and their dependents in times of peace and war. Army nurses are key medical contributors during global health crises such as the COVID–19 pandemic happening now.

Your Guide to Choosing a Nursing Home or Other Long-Term Services & Support       

Nursing homes have been hard hit by COVID–19. This booklet can help a decision-maker choose a nursing home and better understand other types of elder care. It offers valuable information about how certain types of insurance can help make these critical choices a bit easier. Certainly, the role of Medicare and Medicaid must be considered in making nursing home care or alternative types of care decisions.

The team at the Government Publishing Office gives thanks to all nurses, nurse’s aides, and those preparing to dedicate their lives to the medical profession.

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.

Visit our Retail Store: To buy or order a copy of any print editions from this collection at GPO’s retail bookstore at 710 North Capitol Street NW, Washington, DC 20401, open Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., except Federal holidays, Call (202) 512-0132 for information or to arrange in-store pick-up(s).

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 contributor Ed Kessler is a Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication and Information Sales program office.

 

Leave a Comment » | Center of Military History, Department of Health & Human Services, Department of Veterans Affairs, health, Health care | Tagged: , , , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

National Anxiety and Depression Awareness Week

May 4, 2020

The COVID–19 public health crisis has had a major impact on the lives of all Americans. We are certainly living in ways we could have never before imagined. Social distancing and isolation from loved ones and friends brings on an increased awareness of anxiety and depression often associated with traumatic events.

For National Anxiety & Depression Week, which is recognized May 3–9, the Government Publishing Office Bookstore offers the following mental health resources for dealing with the emotional effects resulting from a traumatic event.

Traumatic events such as a pandemic, increases the potential for substance abuse. In these uncertain times, families are facing financial and unemployment challenges. Such challenges can cause a great deal of stress and anxiety, which may lead some to turn to substance use to cope. Thankfully, our Federal health professionals are performing important research to guide us all toward a healthier future.  Alcohol Research: Alcohol Use Disorder and Co-Occurring Mental Health Conditions addresses the challenges of alcohol use and mental health conditions to identify potential treatment strategies. It examines the current literature on the etiology, prevalence, diagnosis, and treatment of each of these conditions. It also discusses depressive disorders, as well as suicidal behavior and other clinical disorders.

Experiencing a traumatic event can also have a profound impact on young children and adolescents. In Psychosocial Issues for Children and Adolescents in Disasters the authors provide pragmatic guidance to address the mental health needs of children who have experienced traumatic events. Key topics outlined in the book include childhood development, reactions of children when experiencing a traumatic event, as well as helping the child and family during the healing process. It also provides important guidelines for caregivers and mental health workers. During this unprecedented time that we are all going through, it is important to be mindful of the vulnerability of children. This publication provides crisis counseling and recovery assistance within the context of a child’s special world.

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.

Visit our Retail Store: To buy or order a copy of any print editions from this collection at GPO’s retail bookstore at 710 North Capitol Street NW, Washington, DC 20401, open Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., except Federal holidays, Call (202) 512-0132 for information or to arrange in-store pick-up(s).

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 contributor Trudy Hawkins is the the Sr. Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Division supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore.

Leave a Comment » | Consumers, Department of Health & Human Services, health, Health care, NIH | Tagged: , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

A Federal Publication for World Immunization Week

April 24, 2020

The current COVID-19 pandemic crisis has cast a light on the importance of vaccines. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), tens of thousands of Americans get sick from diseases that could be prevented by vaccines each year. The CDC recommends vaccines for children, teens, and adults based on different factors like age, health conditions, lifestyle, jobs, and travel. The agency warns that outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases can and do still occur. For example, measles still exists in many parts of the world. In recent years, unvaccinated Americans who traveled to those parts of the world became sick and spread measles in their communities. Vaccinations protect not only you, but your family, friends, and neighbors. The more educated we are on vaccines, the more we can help ourselves and those around us stay safe and healthy. This year Word Immunization Week will be celebrated April 24–30. According to the CDC, this week is “a time dedicated to promoting the use of vaccines to protect people of all ages against disease.” If you’re looking to learn more, read on for a helpful tool.

The information on vaccines in the Immunization Toolkit, available for purchase at the GPO Bookstore, is based on national recommendations, peer-reviewed medical literature, and clinical practice guidelines. Physicians, nurses, pharmacists, hospital residents and more in the medical field will find the Immunization Tool Kit helpful in their practices. Or, if you’re just someone interested in learning more about vaccines, you can learn a lot from this toolkit!

The kit includes a bright, color-coded childhood/adolescent immunization schedule and recommended intervals between doses, a tool that parents and teachers will find incredibly helpful to keep their kids’ vaccinations on track and their children healthy. You can even put this schedule on your fridge! For medical professionals, the toolkit also includes a table that lists all components in each vaccine as well as a description of that vaccine’s manufacturing process. The toolkit describes the most up-to-date instructions on how to administer vaccines for children of various ages and provides illustrations for where on the body each vaccine should be administered, as well as how to prepare patients for vaccines. Healthcare professionals will benefit from information in the toolkit about the screening checklist for contraindications to vaccines.

We hope you take the time this World Immunization Week to use resources available to you to learn why vaccines are so critical to keeping our communities safe and healthy.

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.

Visit our Retail Store: To buy or order a copy of any print editions from this collection at GPO’s retail bookstore at 710 North Capitol Street NW, Washington, DC 20401, open Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., except Federal holidays, Call (202) 512-0132 for information or to arrange in-store pick-up(s).

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 contributor Cat Goergen is the PR Specialist in GPO’s Public Relations office.

Leave a Comment » | Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Family, health, Health care | Tagged: , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Celebrate National Library Week from Home

April 17, 2020

The theme for National Library Week 2020, “Find your place at the library” was chosen before most libraries temporarily closed their physical locations because of the COVID–19 global pandemic. The good news is that libraries remain open for business online, providing the virtual services and digital content their communities need more than ever. And though you might not be there physically for National Library Week, which will take place April 19–25, you can still find your place at the library!

You may have to stay home and social distance this National Library Week, but there are still plenty of ways you can celebrate virtually. Many libraries offer eBook loans, streaming programs, and online reading sessions. And most have become forgiving about return dates during this time. During National Library Week, take the time to thank those at your local library who work behind the scenes to keep digital content at your fingertips. You can write letters, or post an appreciation video or photo on social media.

As educational institutions and parents are turning to online learning during the coronavirus pandemic, you can do your own e-learning via the GPO online bookstore. Visit gpo.bookstore.gov to browse our digital products and eBooks covering a variety of important topics. Here are a couple of digital resources from the GPO online bookstore that you can use to help teach your kids about something very important — healthy eating!

Discover MyPlate: Grains (ePub)

It’s all about grains, healthy eating, and reading! This colorful and fun eBook introduces kindergarten-aged children to different grains, while building literacy skills through the use of sight words, optional audio narration and text highlighting, interactive games and activities, and more! This eBook is part of Discover MyPlate Emergent Reader series, which is designed to teach children about MyPlate’s five food groups.

Discover MyPlate: Fruits (ePub)

This MyPlate eBook is focused on fruits to better inform and motivate kids in practicing better eating habits, and using this challenging time to improve on their reading skills too! This illustrated, engaging online resource introduces kindergarten-aged children to different fruits. The more kids get in tune with the deliciousness of fruits (and vegetables), the healthier they will be as adults.

Check out more resources from the Discover MyPlate Emergent Reader series all designed to teach children about MyPlate’s five food groups here. Browse more educational resources here.

There are still so many ways to celebrate National Library Week. We hope you are staying safe and healthy and continue to read during this time!

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.

Visit our Retail Store: To buy or order a copy of any print editions from this collection at GPO’s retail bookstore at 710 North Capitol Street NW, Washington, DC 20401, open Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., except Federal holidays, Call (202) 512-0132 for information or to arrange in-store pick-up(s).

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 contributor Ed Kessler is a Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication and Information Sales program office.

Leave a Comment » | Children, Consumers, ebooks, Family, Libraries, Parenting, Teachers and teaching | Tagged: , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

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