Immigration Publications

May 17, 2023

If you are a new immigrant seeking legal status as an American citizen, the U.S. Government Bookstore offers the following resources to help individuals prepare for U.S. citizenship.

Welcome to the United States: A Guide for New Immigrants (Package of 100) is a comprehensive guide for new permanent residents. It contains practical information to help immigrants settle into everyday life in the United States and provides basic civics information that introduces new immigrants to the U.S. system of government. This publication is also available in single copies here.

Bienvenidos a los Estados Unidos de America: Guia Para Inmigrantes Nuevos (Package of 50 Copies). Spanish-language edition of Welcome to the United States, A Guide for New Immigrants.

Preparing For The Naturalization Test: A Pocket Study Guide. Thinking about applying for naturalization? To become a naturalized U.S. citizen, you must pass the naturalization test. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) provides this booklet with the civics test questions and answers and the reading and writing vocabulary to help you study.

Civics Flash Cards for the Naturalization Test (English). There’s no better way to learn about the basics of preparing for the U.S. Naturalization test than these 100 questions and answers deck of flash cards. Whether you are an immigrant reviewing facts for the naturalization test or an American citizen that may want a refresher about the American government and history, this flash card set is a great educational tool. The Spanish-language edition is also available here.

Learn About the United States: Quick Civics Lessons will help you study for the civics and English portions of the naturalization test. It covers history and government questions on the test. For example, “What is the supreme law of the land in America?” This question and others are part of the updated civics flash cards to help you study for the U.S. Naturalization test.

Vocabulary Flash Cards For The Naturalization Test. These new reading Vocabulary Flash Cards help immigrants study for the English reading portion of the naturalization test. They contain all the words found in the English reading portion of the naturalization test. They can also be used in the classroom as an instructional tool for citizenship preparation or as a resource for self-study.

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).

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

The Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States

May 25, 2022

Does your family have a copy of The Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States? Every American should have handy the words of America’s founding fathers to help remind us all of the values of our freedom and independence.

This pocket-sized booklet can easily be kept in a home or on-person as a reminder of how our government is structured and operates. It also defines the ratification and amendment ratification process.

Important words of historical value, not only to live by but offer teachable moments with family and friends…

Declaration of Independence

“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. ….. The history of the present King of Great Britain is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations, all having in direct object the establishment of an absolute Tyranny over these States. To prove this, let Facts be submitted to a candid world.”

Constitution of the United States

“We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.”

Pick up your copy of The Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States now!

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.

2 Comments | Civics and Citizenship, Department of Homeland Security, Libraries, Teachers and teaching, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, U.S. Constitution, U.S. History | Tagged: , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Learn About the United States

December 14, 2021

Bill of Rights Day is celebrated annually on December 15. It’s a great time to reflect on two fundamental resources that are the foundation of our nation’s reliance on laws that govern. Our Nation’s beginning started when our founding fathers wrote and approved the Constitution and Declaration of Independence. The Bill of Rights were created and placed at the opening of the Constitution. These essential individual rights are the first ten amendments to the Constitution. Initially there were no individual rights as the founders were focused on establishing a new form of government. However, many citizens at the time recognized the importance of individual rights and wanted to make sure essential personal freedoms were included. Thus, the Bill of Rights came to be.

The U.S. Government Publishing Office Bookstore provides many federal titles describing the contents of the Constitution as well as other historical documents.

Americans can keep the Constitution of the United States and the Declaration of Independence handy in this pocket-size booklet containing the complete text of the two core documents of American democracy; the Constitution of the United States, and, the Declaration of Independence. You can use this comprehensive booklet to stay connected with the principles that have made America a bastion of democracy throughout its history.

To learn more about America’s history, the U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS) has created a series of flash cards Learn About the United States: Quick Civics Lessons. This set of educational flash cards were especially designed for new immigrants to more easily learn about the history and wonder of becoming an American citizen.

These are great resources for civics, Government, and history teachers and students.

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

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 » | Civics and Citizenship, Department of Homeland Security, Teachers and teaching, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, U.S. Constitution | Tagged: , , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Constitution Day September 17th

September 16, 2021

September 17th is Constitution Day. America celebrates this day to commemorate when delegates came together in Philadelphia at the Constitutional Convention in 1787 and signed the U.S. Constitution into law. However, it wasn’t until 2004 that the holiday took on the full name it bears today.  In 2004, Senator Robert Byrd passed an amendment renaming the holiday “Constitution Day and Citizenship Day,” which requires public schools and institutions to provide information on the history of the country’s Constitution.

The Constitution is often called a living document since it can be amended through a governmental process. The process for amending the Constitution can be found in the Constitution itself. And it can often take time to add an amendment, a process the founders developed as an attempt to ensure the power remained with the people.

Constitution of the United States and the Declaration of Independence (Pocket Edition) is a pocket-size booklet containing the complete text of these two core documents of American democracy, the Constitution of the United States and the Declaration of Independence. Use this easy to read way to stay connected with the principles that have made America a bastion of democracy throughout its history.

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 Publication and Information Sales program office.

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

Bill of Rights Day

December 14, 2020

The Bill of Rights was established on December 15, 1791. It was one of our country’s earliest acts to protect the rights endowed by our founding documents that are afforded all Americans. It is the first ten amendments to the Constitution and guarantees our freedoms. These Ten Constitutional Amendments safeguard the principles of equality, liberty, and justice.

The U.S. Government Publishing Office Bookstore provides a number of federal titles describing the contents of the Constitution as well as other historical documents.

Americans can keep the Constitution of the United States and the Declaration of Independence handy in this pocket-size booklet containing the complete text of the two core documents of American democracy; the Constitution of the United States, and, Declaration of Independence. You can use this comprehensive booklet to stay readily connected with the principles that have made America a bastion of democracy throughout its history.

The Citizen Almanac features information on our history, diverse people, and events that brought us where we are today as a beacon of hope and freedom to the world. This booklet serves as an important reminder of the cherished rights and responsibilities immigrants have upon becoming a U.S. citizen. There’s always more to learn about this great country, its founding ideals, achievements, and history. These important resources provide a great place to begin the journey.

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.

 

1 Comment | Civics and Citizenship, U.S. History | Tagged: , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Celebrating our Constitution and Citizenship

September 16, 2020

The meaning of being an American citizen is grounded in the words of our Constitution and Bill of Rights. We can be proud as the only nation founded on the words of Thomas Jefferson in 1776, who proposed human rights inherent to all people found in the Declaration of Independence: “all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights; that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”

The Constitution of the United States and the Declaration of Independence (Pocket Edition). These papers created by America’s Founding Fathers define our government and guarantee our individual rights. On September 17, Americans are encouraged to celebrate Constitution Day and Citizenship Day. For newly arrived and established immigrants, it’s a time to reflect on becoming an American citizen, as a day like no other.

USCIS Adult Citizenship Education Program Development Guide: Building an Adult Citizenship Program. With Constitution Week being celebrated from September 17-23, the Government Publishing Office suggests seeking out publications produced by United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that speak to the values and responsibilities of American citizenship. Also in this collection, you will find study resources for civics and English portions of the naturalization interview, plus testing procedures essential to prospective citizens.

For those who are taking steps to become U.S. citizens, USCIS provides many guides with questions on the civics test like, “What is the supreme law of the land?” and “What are two rights of everyone living in the United States?”

To help celebrate Citizenship Day and Constitution Week, test your knowledge, with some of these resources associated with these important events: https://bookstore.gpo.gov/catalog/citizenship-civics.

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

Leave a Comment » | Civics and Citizenship, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services | 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

Constitution and Citizenship Day

September 15, 2017

On September 17, Americans celebrate Constitution Day and Citizenship Day. On this special day, all Americans are urged to reflect on the rights and responsibilities of citizenship and what it means to be a U.S. citizen.

It’s also a time to recognize people who are taking steps to become legal U.S. citizens. To support the cause for celebrating Constitution Day and Citizenship Day here are some Federal government resources for learners and teachers associated with this important day.

Constitution of the United States and the Declaration of Independence (Pocket Edition). A pocket-size booklet containing the complete text of these two core documents of American democracy, the Constitution of the United States and the Declaration of Independence.

The Citizen’s Almanac is a collection of America’s most cherished symbols of freedom and liberty, serving as a modern day lifeline to the rich civic history we all share as Americans. The booklet includes information on patriotic anthems and symbols, citizenship rights and responsibilities, the creation of our founding documents, biographical details on prominent foreign-born Americans, landmark decisions of the U.S. Supreme Court, and important presidential and historic speeches on citizenship.

Civics and Citizenship Toolkit. This toolkit contains settlement information for new immigrants to the United States, information on the U.S. naturalization process, study materials for the naturalization test, reference materials on the rights and responsibilities of U.S. citizenship and U.S. history, multimedia tools including DVDs and an audio CD, teaching guides and planning resources, flash cards, and books.

Learn About The United States: Quick Civics Lessons for the Naturalization Test. There are 100 civics (history and government) questions on the naturalization test. This booklet contains short lessons based on each of the 100 civics questions. This additional information will help you learn more about important concepts in American history and government.

Civics Flash Cards for the Naturalization Test (2017). These Civics Flash Cards will help immigrants learn about U.S. history and government while preparing for the naturalization test. These flash cards can also be used in the classroom as an instructional tool for citizenship preparation.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCES?

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

Shop our Retail Store: Buy 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, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., except Federal holidays, Call (202) 512-0132 for information or to arrange in-store pick-up.

Order by Phone: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 5:30 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.

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

Leave a Comment » | Asian Americans & Pacific Islanders, Civics and Citizenship, Hispanics, Teachers and teaching, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services | Tagged: , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Fourth of July

June 30, 2017

“Taxation without representation”; the battle cry in America’s Thirteen Colonies when forced to pay taxes to England’s King George III despite having no representation in the British Parliament. As dissatisfaction grew, British troops were sent to quell the growing movement toward rebellion. Repeated attempts by Colonists to resolve the crisis without military conflict proved fruitless.

On June 11, 1776, the Colonies’ Second Continental Congress met in Philadelphia to form a committee to draft a document formally severing ties with Great Britain. The committee included Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, Roger Sherman and Robert R. Livingston. Jefferson, who was considered the strongest and most eloquent writer, crafted the original draft document. The Continental Congress officially adopted a final version July 4, 1776.

How do you celebrate our freedom? With just hot dogs and burgers and fireworks? You might want to consider the hundreds of thousands of Americans now serving overseas to protect our way of life while we relax in the yard or at the beach this holiday weekend.

Get involved as they are. Take a step forward in understanding how America came to be, or read how our ever-vigilant military leaders give advice and counsel to our nation’s leaders. Reading to open the eyes of all Americans to the challenges we must face as a nation bound together as one.

Declaration of Independence and Constitution of the United States

A pocket-size booklet containing the complete text of these two core documents of American democracy: the Declaration of Independence and Constitution of the United States.

The Citizen’s Almanac: Fundamental Documents, Symbols, and Anthems of the United States U.S.

This pro-Americana booklet has been primarily designed for naturalized citizens as they enter into citizenship life within the United States of America.  The Citizen’s Almanac contains information on the history, people, and events that have brought us where we are today as a beacon of hope and freedom to the world. The contents of this booklet will serve as a constant reminder of the important rights and responsibilities immigrants will now have as a U.S. citizen.

Charting a Course: Strategic Choices for a New Administration Defense Dept., National Defense University

The new administration takes office in a time of great complexity. Our new President faces a national security environment shaped by strong currents: globalization; the proliferation of new, poor, and weak states, as well as non-state actors; an enduring landscape of violent extremist organizations; slow economic growth; the rise of China and a revanchist Russia; a collapsing Middle East; and a domestic politics wracked by division and mistrust. While in absolute terms the Nation and the world are safer than in the last century, today the United States finds itself almost on a permanent war footing, engaged in military operations around the world.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCES?

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

Shop our Retail Store: Buy 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, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., except Federal holidays, Call (202) 512-0132 for information or to arrange in-store pick-up.

Order by Phone: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 5:30 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.

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

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

Celebrate America’s Independence

June 24, 2016

Start with the U.S. Constitution and Declaration of Independence

In celebration of our nation’s independence there’s no better time for you, your family, or school children to own and read these historic documents. It’s easy to forget how wise our forefathers were in creating the foundation of our freedoms. The documents they authored have endured; for example, the Declaration of Independence is 240 years old. Words so beautifully crafted in the late eighteenth century that still speak with power, eloquence, and relevance today.

In time for Fourth of July, GPO offers the pocket size booklet of the U.S. Constitution and Declaration of Independence, including complete text.

027-002-00540-6Owning this historic set of Americana has never been easier or more affordable – only $1.50/set! And, while the kids are out of school, consider giving these documents to your own kids and their friends to read. Celebrate our written foundation of freedom by sitting down with your children or class and reading both documents line-by-line.

Get to know America’s foundational documents so that you’ll have another reason to chant “USA-USA-USA.”

HOW DO I OBTAIN THIS RESOURCE?

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

 Shop our Retail Store: Buy 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, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., except Federal holidays, Call (202) 512-0132 for information or to arrange in-store pick-up.

Order by Phone: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 5:30 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.

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

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

Bill of Rights Day

December 15, 2015

It has been said that the Declaration of Independence was the promise; the Constitution was the fulfillment. Then you might say that the Bill of Rights was the affirmation. Today, December 15, those enduring first ten amendments to the Constitution are 224 years old. GPO makes available a pocket copy of The Constitution of the United States and the Declaration of Independence that includes the celebrated Bill of Rights.

052-071-01545-1Since they were ratified in 1791, that compact collection of amendments have become some of the most talked about text in history. Before the guarantees of the Bill of Rights were plainly enumerated in the Constitution, there was a rumbling fear of the tyrannical actions of government. In response, James Madison authored a list of amendments requiring approval from the House, Senate, and all states. His list enshrined as inalienable rights the self-evident truths invoked in preceding documents.

Although the phrase itself does not appear explicitly in the Constitution, The Bill of Rights is a foundation stone of a document that has lived long and large. Because of it, fundamental freedoms such as religion, speech, and due process of law are formally protected within the supreme law of the land.

The Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and Bill of Rights are three extraordinary documents. They are the slow-burning coals of a quiet revolution, a steady progression to improve the quality of American life. Together they secure individual liberties and safeguard the spirit of popular sovereignty extolled in the phrase “we the people.” Now is as good a time as any for “we the people” to re-read them.

How do I get the pocket edition of the Constitution of the United States and the Declaration of Independence?

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

Shop our Retail Store: Buy 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, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., except Federal holidays, Call (202) 512-0132 for information or to arrange in-store pick-up.

Order by Phone: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 5:30 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.

About the author: Our guest blogger is Chelsea Milko, Public Relations Specialist in GPO’s Public Relations Office.

Leave a Comment » | Civics and Citizenship, Congress, House of Representatives, Senate, U.S. History | Tagged: , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Ben’s Guide to the U.S. Government: Free, Educational Content from GPO for Children and Adults of all Ages

November 23, 2015

PrintIn 1999, the U.S. Government Publishing Office (GPO) launched its educational website, Ben’s Guide to U.S. Government for Kids. This year, GPO redesigned and revitalized the site with all new content and features, and it is now available to the public as “Ben’s Guide to the U.S. Government.”

The new site presents educational content on the workings of the U.S. Government and U.S. history, with a focus on civics. It features all new site content, a device-friendly infrastructure, and a modernized look and feel that has been optimized for an intuitive learning experience.

Ben’s Guide has three levels of Learning Adventures: Apprentice (ages 4-8), Journeyperson (ages 9-13), and Master (ages 14 and up). These represent the age ranges for the content but are also a historical reference to the longstanding apprentice program that is still in place at GPO today. The inspiration for the Ben character comes from Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790), who was an apprentice and printer in the early days of our country. Although best known for being one of our Founding Fathers, he drafted and distributed historical documents during the early years of our Nation. He’s an important figure at GPO, too, and his legacy of publishing information truly lives on in what we do today.

A new, interactive game, Branch-O-Mania, is available, which is not only fun, but educational, and tests knowledge of the three branches of the U.S. Government. Educators, parents, and students can also access free, printable activities that include Word Searches and Crossword Puzzles for various age ranges. Check out the game and printables here. Also included is a site glossary that includes over 80 terms and definitions related to the U.S. Government, as used on the website.

In 2013, GPO signed an official partnership with the American Association of School Librarians (AASL). Under the terms of the partnership, AASL volunteer school librarians agreed to review the educational content on Ben’s Guide to the U.S. Government for age-appropriateness. In addition, they utilized their expertise in curriculum development and educational initiatives to develop lesson plans to complement Ben’s Guide content.

Through ongoing communication and coordination with GPO, volunteers provided feedback on the educational content, called Learning Adventures, for the Apprentice, Journeyperson, and Master levels. They applied their knowledge of the presentation of information and instructional design to the specific age levels to improve and enhance comprehension of the material.

Select volunteers went the extra ‘knowledge’ mile and created lesson plans related to the content of Ben’s Guide. Educators can not only use the new Ben’s Guide to the U.S. Government in an educational setting, but can also consult ready-made lesson plans to integrate into their course curriculum. These lesson plans follow a structured rubric that sets forth the elements, standards, scenario, overview, assessment, and instructional plan. Lesson plans submitted by volunteers were reviewed and vetted by AASL before being officially accepted and published.

The lesson plans are archived and available on Ben’s Guide and at the Standards for the 21st-Century Learner Lesson Plan Database site. The AASL lesson plans are arranged into three groups: grades K-5, grades 6-8, and grades 9-12. All of the lesson plans are freely-available to the public and can be accessed and incorporated into the classroom setting.

Be sure to check out the new Ben’s Guide to the U.S. Government on your computer, tablet, or device of choice. Let us know what you think. We will continue to enhance the site by adding new content and design enhancements based on user feedback.

You can find other resources related to items featured in Ben’s Guide by clicking here or through any of these methods:

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

Shop our Retail Store: Buy 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, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., except Federal holidays, Call (202) 512-0132 for information or to arrange in-store pick-up.

Order by Phone: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 5:30 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.

About the author: Kelly Seifert is the Strategic Communications Coordinator for GPO’s Library Services & Content Management division.

 

 

 

 

Leave a Comment » | Children, Civics and Citizenship, Government Printing Office (GPO), Teachers and teaching | Tagged: , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

« Previous Entries
%d bloggers like this: