Celebrate America’s National Parks: From Trails to Your Walls!

July 16, 2025

There’s nothing quite like the majestic beauty of America’s national parks to help you disconnect and recharge. July is National Park and Recreation Month, making it the perfect time to explore the many outdoor activities within the National Park System. You can also bring the awe-inspiring beauty of these natural wonders into your home.

The GPO Online Bookstore offers a fantastic collection of vibrant posters that capture the essence of these cherished landscapes. Many of these stunning prints are by the renowned artist Charley Harper, whose unique style brings the parks to life with bold colors and captivating designs.

Featured National Park Posters:

  • The Rocky Mountains Poster: Dive into the vibrant ecosystem of the Rocky Mountains with this captivating poster by Charley Harper. His distinctive artistic take on the park’s animal and plant life, set against glaciers, crystal-clear streams, and a busy beaver, will inspire your next adventure.
  • Canyon Country Poster: Another masterpiece by Charley Harper, this poster showcases the breathtaking “Canyon Country” parks spanning southern Utah, northern Arizona, eastern Nevada, and western Colorado. The rich, multi-colored illustration depicts striking pinnacles, buttes, spires, mesas, and canyons teeming with wildlife, making you feel like you’re standing on the edge of a primeval wonderland.

The GPO Online Bookstore features many more posters by Charley Harper. These high-quality prints are perfect for adding a touch of natural beauty to any home or classroom.

We hope you enjoy National Park and Recreation Month, whether exploring a trail or admiring a national park from your favorite armchair!

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.


A Deep Dive into Democracy: Senate History & Architecture

July 8, 2025

The Senate: History & Architecture Coffee Table Book Set is a must-have for anyone fascinated by American history, politics, or architectural beauty. This exclusive collection, found only at the GPO Bookstore, offers an unparalleled look into one of the most enduring institutions in the United States.

This comprehensive set is more than just books; it’s a meticulously curated journey through time, brought to life with stunning visuals and insightful stories. You’ll:

  • Trace the Senate’s evolution, understanding its pivotal role in shaping the nation.
  • Explore the intricate details of the U.S. Capitol Building’s Senate Wing, seeing how its architecture tells a story of American ideals.
  • Uncover captivating tales of the individuals whose debates and decisions shaped American society.
  • Gain a deeper appreciation for the legislative process and the Senate’s profound impact.

High-quality production, rich photography, and engaging text make this set perfect for any library, a thoughtful gift, or a valuable resource for educators. As the official source for U.S. Government publications, the GPO Bookstore guarantees authentic and authoritative materials.

Whether you’re a historian, a civics student, or just curious about American democracy, The Senate: History & Architecture Coffee Table Book Set is essential. Visit the GPO Online Bookstore today to secure your chance to own this unique collection—while supplies last!

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THIS RESOURCE?

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

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

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

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

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

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


Bring American History to Life with Inspiring Posters

June 12, 2025

American history is a tapestry woven with stories of courage, struggle, and the pursuit of freedom. Few periods capture the imagination quite like the American Revolution. From the defiant cries of “no taxation without representation” to the thunder of muskets at Yorktown, this era shaped the very foundation of the United States.

Did you know that the American Revolution was the longest military conflict before the Vietnam War, lasting from 1775 to 1783? Or that France’s intervention, particularly its naval support, played a pivotal role in the British surrender at Yorktown? History enthusiasts, educators, and others interested in this period can delve deeper with these visually striking representations of this pivotal time with the U.S. Government Bookstore’s engaging American Revolution history posters, perfect for classrooms, offices, or homes.

More than just decorative, these posters are windows into the past. Discover American history on:

Consider these American Revolution history posters to bring a piece of American history to life or deepen your understanding of this incredible period.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCES?

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

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

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

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

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

About the author: Blogger 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).


How to Make the Most of National Park Week?

April 17, 2025

National Park Week is around the corner, from April 19th to the 27th. It’s the perfect opportunity to discover (or rediscover) the breathtaking beauty of America’s National Park System.

If you’re dreaming of towering mountains, serene forests, dramatic coastlines, or historical landmarks, there’s a national park waiting to captivate you. This annual event is a chance to connect with these treasured places and learn about their significance.

Can’t get out to enjoy the parks in person? The National Park Service (NPS) recently remastered its popular posters, which bring the beauty of America’s national parks to life. The posters showcase stunning art by the iconic artist Charley Harper. Charley Harper was an American mid-century modern artist recognized for his bold, graphic style and nature illustrations. Harper created fascinating artwork for a series of ten posters for the NPS that captured the essence of different parks in America.

Here are a few of the National Park posters featuring Charley Harper’s artwork:

Atlantic Barrier Islands depicts the animal and plant life of the Atlantic Barrier Islands. This poster showcases the rich wildlife of the barrier islands, including shorebirds, sea turtles, and dolphins.

Hawaii Volcanoes depicts Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. This poster features the volcanic landscapes of Hawaii, with flowing lava, cinder cones, and native Hawaiian plants and animals.

The Rocky Mountains depict color and the animal and plant life of the Rocky Mountains. On the poster, a beaver pond reflects the landscape of the Rockies, a terrain shaped by glaciers, streams, and the beaver itself.

How to Make the Most of National Park Week:

  • Plan Your Visit: Check the website of the national park or parks you’re interested in visiting for specific events and activities during the week. Reservations may be required for some programs.
  • Explore Something New: Consider visiting a park you’ve never visited! You might be surprised by the hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
  • Get Involved: Look for volunteer opportunities or ways to support the National Park Service.
  • Share Your Experience: Use the hashtag #NationalParkWeek to share your photos and stories on social media and inspire others to explore.

Whether or not you plan on visiting a national park this summer, Charley Harper’s nature-oriented prints can take you there without leaving home.

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCES?

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

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

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

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

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

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


Unique and Thoughtful Gift Ideas

December 12, 2024

The holidays are fast approaching. If you’re searching for that special gift, let the federal government help with popular, practical, and unique gift ideas. This year, consider gifts that spark curiosity, inspire learning, and celebrate our beautiful planet. From space enthusiasts to nature lovers and young learners, we’ve covered you with these out-of-this-world gift ideas.

Here are popular gift ideas from the U.S. Government Bookstore that will delight everyone on your list.

The 2025 NASA Science Calendar is a must-have for the space enthusiast in your life. This calendar features stunning images of planets, galaxies, and astronauts and is a daily reminder of the universe’s wonders. It’s a great way to stay organized and get inspired.

Outdoor lovers can bring the beauty of nature into their homes with beautiful National Park posters. With choices ranging from the iconic Rocky Mountains to Canyon Country National Park and more, these posters are perfect for framing and displaying in any room. They’re a great conversation starter and a reminder of the importance of preserving our natural heritage.

For the little ones in your life, the Discover MyPlate activity booklets are a fun and educational way to learn about healthy eating. These booklets help build literacy and teach kids about different food groups and portion sizes. They’re a great way to encourage healthy habits while having fun.

These gifts will surely be a hit with people of all ages. They’re perfect for anyone who loves learning, exploring, and appreciating the beauty of our planet.

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCES?

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

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

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

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

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

About the author: Blogger 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).


Captivating Posters from the NPS

March 29, 2024

The National Park Service (NPS) recently remastered its popular posters that bring the beauty of America’s national parks to life, showcasing stunning art by the iconic artist Charley Harper. Charley Harper was an American mid-century modern artist recognized for his bold, graphic style and nature illustrations. Harper created fascinating artwork for a series of ten posters for the National Park Service that captured the essence of different parks in America.

Here are a few of the National Park posters featuring Charley Harper’s artwork:

Glacier Bay, Alaska poster explores the abundance and variety of life inhabiting the Bay.

Canyon Country poster depicts the Canyon Country National Parks in southern Utah, northern Arizona, eastern Nevada, and western Colorado. Enjoy enchanted landscapes of colorful pinnacles, buttes, spires, mesas, and canyons teeming with wildlife.

The Coral Reef poster explores the abundance and variety of coral reef sea life inhabiting Caribbean reef preserves.

Plus, seven more amazing posters of enduring beauty are available here.

These iconic posters feature vivid colors, simplified shapes, and a whimsical depiction of the flora and fauna of each park. They continue to be popular today, celebrating the beauty and diversity of America’s national parks.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCES?

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

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

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

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

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

About the author: Blogger 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).


NEW! 2024 NASA Science Calendar

February 21, 2024

Rho Ophiuchi

The National Aeronautics Space Administration’s (NASA) much anticipated 2024 NASA Science Calendar is now available from the U.S. Government Publishing Office (GPO) Online Bookstore. The NASA Science Calendar is a yearly publication that features stunning imagery of the cosmos, informative articles about NASA’s missions, and important dates to remember. It’s a great way to stay current on what’s happening in space exploration and learn more about the universe around us.

Here are some of the highlights of the 2024 NASA Science Calendar:

January: Rho Ophiuchi. The first anniversary image from NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope displays star birth like it’s never been seen before, full of detailed, impressionistic texture. The subject is the Rho Ophiuchi cloud complex, the closest star-forming region to Earth.

Sun Emits X1.2 Flare

February: Sun Emits X1.2 Flare. An X1.2-class solar flare flashes on the left edge of this image of the Sun, captured by NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory on January 5, 2023. The image shows a blend of light from the 171- and 131-angstrom wavelengths, which highlight the Sun’s corona and flaring regions. Solar flares are powerful bursts of energy.

Bloomin’ Atlantic

March: Bloomin’ Atlantic. Vibrant swirls of green and turquoise appeared in the North Atlantic for several weeks in April 2023. Some of the color is due to an abundance of phytoplankton, floating plant-like organisms. Although they are microscopic, large groups of phytoplankton are visible from space, as revealed in this image captured by the NASA  –U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Landsat 9 Operational Land Imager-2 (OLI-2) instrument.

There is more amazing imagery, “From fire to water to ice and beyond, NASA Science is exploring the universe,” in the new 2024 NASA Science Calendar.

The NASA Science Calendar remains one of our best sellers. Grab your copy while supplies last!

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THIS RESOURCE?

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

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

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

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

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

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


Gift ideas from the Federal Government

December 12, 2023

The holidays are fast approaching. If you’re still searching for that special gift, let the Federal government help. From national parks to American history and more, the Federal government offers stunning prints and wall posters that make great stocking stuffers for your loved ones, colleagues, or friends. Whether shopping for someone who appreciates the outdoors or looking for something educational to display in a child’s room, there is a poster for everyone on your Christmas list.

Tips for choosing a poster:

  • Consider the recipient’s interests. What are they passionate about? What kind of art do they like?
  • Choose a high-quality poster. The poster should be made from thick, durable paper and have high-quality printing.
  • Think about the size of the poster. The poster should be large enough to make a statement but not so large that it overwhelms the space.
  • Frame the poster. A framed poster looks more polished and professional.

Below are a few ideas for outdoor lovers available from the U.S. Government Publishing Office (GPO) U.S. Bookstore.

Atlantic Barrier Islands (Poster) is a National Park Service commissioned poster by famed nature artist Charley Harper. This poster is printed on heavy paper with the print quality of a lithograph.

Yosemite National Park (Poster). Looking down Yosemite Valley from west to east, an alpine panorama depicts Yosemite National Park’s wondrous rock forms, hanging valleys, waterfalls, lakes, and streams, with El Capitan and Half Dome forming the central spectacle with Bridalveil and Yosemite Falls.

A Photographer’s Path: Images of National Parks Near the Nation’s Capital is a stunning coffee table book with colorful photographic images of nature and history in Greater Washington DC.

We also offer American history posters for the history buff and much more 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.

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

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

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

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


Celebrate Arts and Humanities

October 19, 2023

National Arts and Humanities Month (NAHM) is celebrated each October in the United States. It is a time to recognize and celebrate the importance of the arts and humanities in our lives and communities. The arts and humanities encompass various disciplines, including music, dance, theater, literature, history, philosophy, and languages. They help us to understand ourselves and the world around us, to express ourselves creatively, and to connect with others.

The U.S. Government Bookstore offers Humanities, published by the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH), a quarterly magazine that vividly describes NEH-sponsored research in the humanities, NEH programs and projects, and issues related to the humanities in the United States. It also provides recent NEH grants, deadlines, and helpful information for applicants seeking funds.

Here are some ideas for how to celebrate NAHM:

  • Attend a free arts or humanities event in your community.
  • Visit a museum or art gallery.
  • See a play or musical.
  • Take a dance class or music lesson.
  • Read a book by an author from your community.
  • Learn about the history and culture of your community.
  • Support local arts and humanities organizations.

NAHM is a time to celebrate the power of the arts and humanities to inspire, educate, and entertain us. It is a time to show our support for the artists and scholars who create and preserve our culture. And it is a time to learn more about how the arts and humanities can enrich our lives.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THIS RESOURCE?

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

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

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

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

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

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


Humanities Magazine: A Focus on American Culture and the Arts

September 30, 2022

“The term ‘humanities’ includes, but is not limited to, the study and interpretation of the following: language, both modern and classical; linguistics; literature; history; jurisprudence; philosophy; archaeology; comparative religion; ethics; the history, criticism, and theory of the arts; those aspects of the social sciences which have humanistic content and employ humanistic methods; and the study and application of the humanities to the human environment with particular attention to reflecting our diverse heritage, traditions, and history and to the relevance of the humanities to the current conditions of national life.”–National Foundation on the Arts and the Humanities Act, 1965, as amended: https://www.neh.gov/about.

Humanities, published by the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH), is a quarterly magazine focusing on American culture and the arts by authors who have dedicated their lives to bringing us closer to our creativity and self-expression. It includes vivid and interesting descriptions of NEH- sponsored research in the humanities, NEH programs and projects, and issues related to the humanities in the United States. It also provides recent NEH grants, deadlines, and helpful information for applicants seeking funds. With interesting stories of literature, history, archaeology, comparative religion, philosophy, and language crafted by well-known authors across the spectrum of the Humanities, the magazine allows readers to become more aware of the world around them and recognize the positive impact of American culture and the arts.

This publication is an excellent resource for anyone involved in the arts and humanities.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THIS RESOURCE?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


Publications for National Arts and Humanities Month

October 8, 2020

During the coronavirus pandemic, many people have turned to both making art and experiencing art to help reduce stress and to express their emotions during this unprecedented time. Whether we are listening to music, painting a picture, or reading a poem, art affects our daily lives and can bring us together. 

October is National Arts and Humanities Month (NAHM). This important event provides an opportunity for people across the Nation to recognize the importance of culture in America. According to Americans for the Arts, the month-long celebration focuses on equitable access to the arts, encouraging communities and people in those communities to participate in the arts, allowing Governments and businesses to show their support of the arts, and raising public awareness about the role of the arts and humanities.

Humanities, available at the GPO Bookstore,is a quarterly magazine published by the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH). The magazine includes vivid and interesting descriptions of NEH- sponsored research in the humanities, NEH programs and projects, and issues related to the humanities in the United States. It also provides recent NEH grants, deadlines, and useful information for applicants seeking funds. This publication is great for anyone involved in the Arts and Humanities.  

William Henry Jackson is best known as a pioneering photographer who captured the first images of Yellowstone, The Tetons, and Mesa Verde. After a lifetime devoted to photography, Jackson picked up a paintbrush when he was 90 years old, proving you’re never too old to try out a new hobby! He produced a series of detailed paintings that illustrated the American West. Jackson’s paintings were remarkable, especially considering he never had any formal training as an artist. Eye for History: The Paintings of William Henry Jackson from the Department of the Interior and the National Park Service is available at the GPO Bookstore.

Nature in itself is art, and many artists choose to capture the magnificent landscapes of our Nation. If you love both the outdoors and art, Treasured Landscapes: National Park Service Art Collections Tell America’s Stories from the GPO Bookstore is the perfect coffee table book for you. The publication includes works of art seen together for the first time to illustrate and tell the story of the National Park Service’s first 100 years. The pieces of art in the book showcase the diversity of the national parks and according to the National Park Service, “they reflect the critical role that landscape art played in the establishment of the National Park Service.” The book includes various types of art, including paintings, watercolors, sketches, and more. If you’ve found yourself with some extra time on your hands during quarantine, consider trying your hand at art – whether it be music, writing, drawing, dancing, or photography. You may be surprised just how much you enjoy it. Plus, homemade gifts can really help boost the spirit of a loved one who may have been particularly affected this year. Happy National Arts and Humanities Month from GPO!

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

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.


GPO Holiday Gift Guide: Publications for the Avid Traveler

November 26, 2019

Joshua Tree National Park, NPS

The holidays are right around the corner! It’s time to stop distracting yourself with perfecting your hot chocolate recipe, hanging the stockings with care, and dashing through the snow, and begin the real work – shopping for gifts! GPO is here to help all season long with our 2019 holiday gift guide. Today, we’re discussing avid travelers. These happy nomads are perhaps some of the hardest people to shop for. Their free spirits are inspired by adventure, not material things! They bop from here to there with an insatiable wanderlust and a desire to discover new food, art, sceneries, and people.

The perfect place to start with a gift for a traveler? Think about where they’re headed to next and give them some resources to help them prepare! GPO offers Official National Park Handbooks for Yellowstone, Yosemite, the Everglades, Cape Cod, and so much more. From great geysers to canopies of trees to charming seashores, the traveler in your life will be in awe of these spectacular destinations. These handbooks, produced by the Department of the Interior and the National Park Service, offer endless information about the cultural and natural history of these National Parks, so the recipient of your well-thought out gift will be ready to tackle their next adventure. Along with any of these books, gift your favorite globetrotter with a special travel journal where they can write all about their journey and keep train tickets to memorable destinations or receipts for favorite foods they’ve tried around the globe.

The National Park System wall map poster shows the locations of parks in the National Park System. It was developed by the Publications Office at Harpers Ferry Center in response to the high volume of requests for an oversized version of the map of the National Park Service system. The map shows all 392 authorized units of the park system and measures 39 by 29 inches. Frame this poster as the perfect gift for anyone who loves the National Parks. Really want to go all out? Print and frame photos of your friend or family member on their travels so they can surround their poster with lots of personal pictures to remind them of their trips.

Treasured Landscapes showcases paintings, watercolors, sketches, and other works on paper from over 50 National Park Service museum collections. These works of art are seen together in this book for the first time to illustrate and tell the story of the Service’s first 100 years. Assembled to commemorate the National Park Service Centennial, 1916–2016, artworks capture the diversity of the national parks and Park Service collections, as well as the richness of artists’ encounters. They reflect the critical role that landscape art played in the establishment of the National Park Service. The works shown in the book capture awe-inspiring landscapes, honor individuals who have contributed to the nation’s identity, and commemorate inspiring American ideas and events.

Are you travelling somewhere exciting yourself? If so, be on the lookout for neat souvenirs for the avid traveler and add them to any of these publications for the perfect gift.

It can feel nearly impossible to find a good gift for someone who has seen so many parts of the world. When you start to get stressed, just think of the cozy crackle of the fire, or the jolly laughter of children making snow angels. Then, turn to GPO, of course! We hope this post helped give you a few ideas. Stay tuned for more gift ideas to come this holiday season. Happy gifting from GPO!

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCES?

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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.