Constitution Week: A Celebration of American Democracy

September 15, 2025

Constitution Week, celebrated annually from September 17 to September 23, commemorates the signing of the U.S. Constitution on September 17, 1787. This week-long observance also includes Citizenship Day on September 17, and it serves as an opportunity to reflect on the core principles and ideals that form the bedrock of American democracy.

A great resource for learning more is The Constitution of the United States and The Declaration of Independence (Pocket Edition). Available from the U.S. Government Bookstore, this official publication is a compact and convenient way to carry a reminder of the foundational documents that outline our nation’s government, define its structure, and detail the processes for ratification and amendment.

Why is Constitution Week Important?

The primary goals of Constitution Week are to:

  • Educate: Raise awareness about the U.S. Constitution and its vital role in shaping American society.
  • Promote Civic Engagement: Encourage citizens to get involved in the democratic process and understand their rights and responsibilities.
  • Celebrate American Values: Honor the principles of liberty, justice, and equality that are enshrined in the Constitution.

How to Celebrate Constitution Week

There are many ways to participate and honor this important week:

  • Educational Activities: Schools and community groups often host debates, mock trials, and historical reenactments.
  • Community Events: Look for local flag-raising ceremonies, parades, or picnics.
  • Online Resources: Explore the many online resources that provide information on the Constitution’s history and significance.

By celebrating Constitution Week, we can help ensure that the principles and values of our nation’s founding document are cherished and protected for future generations.

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).


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).


Presidents’ Day

February 14, 2025

Presidents’ Day is an American holiday celebrated on the third Monday in February. It was initially established in 1879 to recognize President George Washington. Now, it serves as a day to remember and celebrate all U.S. presidents, past and present, as we reflect on the leaders who have shaped the United States. What better way to do that than by exploring the publications that offer insights into their administrations and legacies?

You can learn about presidential history by visiting the GPO Government Bookstore, where you will find official resources about current and past Presidential administrations. The Public Papers of the Presidents series, produced by the Office of the Federal Register within the National Archives and Records Administration, is a great way to do this. The Public Papers historical collection of primary source documents includes the Presidents’ public messages, statements, and speeches.

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 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).


Citizenship Day: Celebrating the American Dream

September 13, 2024

September 17th is Citizenship Day, a special occasion that honors the individuals who have become naturalized citizens of the United States. It’s a day to celebrate the diverse cultures and experiences that contribute to the rich tapestry of American society. In honor of Citizenship Day, here are two popular publications from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Learn About the United States: Quick Civics Lessons for the Naturalization Test will help you study for the civics and English portions of the naturalization test. The test has 100 civics (history and government) questions, such as “What is the supreme law of the land in America?”

Civics Flash Cards for the Naturalization Test will help you learn about U.S. history and government while preparing for the naturalization test. They can also be used in the classroom as an instructional tool for citizenship preparation.

How can you celebrate Citizenship Day?

  • Learn about the history: Take some time to learn about the history of immigration in the United States and the significance of becoming a naturalized citizen.
  • Attend a local event: Many communities host events and ceremonies to commemorate Citizenship Day. Check your local listings to see if any activities are happening near you.
  • Connect with fellow citizens: Reach out to friends, family, or neighbors who have recently become naturalized citizens to share in their joy and celebrate their achievements.

Citizenship Day is a reminder of the American Dream and the opportunities that await those willing to work hard and embrace the values of this great nation.

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: 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).


Our Flag

June 7, 2024

Flag Day is a holiday celebrated in the U.S. on June 14th. It commemorates the adoption of the flag of the United States by the Second Continental Congress on June 14, 1777. In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson issued a proclamation officially establishing June 14 as Flag Day. On August 3, 1949, National Flag Day was established by an Act of Congress.

Did you know the first flag that flew over our nation before it became free of the British Empire, where our state stars are, was a United Kingdom emblem? Our Flag can help you better understand how far we’ve come as a nation. It briefly describes the history of the American flag and sets forth the practices and observances appropriate to its display. The publication also features a Flag of States and Territories section.

Ideas for a joyful Flag Day celebration:

  • Display your flag proudly! Make sure it’s in good condition and flying correctly according to the U.S. Flag Code.
  • Learn more about the history of the American flag. There are many great resources online or at your local Federal Deposit Library Program (FDLP).
  • Play patriotic music and sing along!
  • Attend a local Flag Day parade or ceremony.

No matter how you choose to celebrate, National Flag Day is a great time to reflect on the meaning of the American flag and what it represents.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THIS RESOURCE?

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

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

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From 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).


The Constitution & How a Bill Becomes a Law

April 30, 2024

The U.S. Government Publishing Office Bookstore offers the following best-selling classics about the American government.

The Constitution of the United States and the Declaration of Independence (Pocket Edition). This official publication contains two core American democracy documents– the Constitution of the United States of America and the Declaration of Independence. It outlines the framework of the entire lawmaking process.

How a Bill Becomes a Law (Poster). This poster outlines the many steps in our Federal law-making process from the introduction of a bill—an excellent resource for a brick-and-mortar classroom or home school.

Here’s a breakdown of how a bill becomes a law and how the Constitution plays a role:

The Journey of a Bill:

  1. Introduction: A member of Congress (Senate or House of Representatives) introduces a bill, proposing a new law or changes to an existing one.
  2. Committee Action: The bill is assigned to a relevant committee for research, discussion, and possible revisions. The committee may hold hearings to gather public input.
  3. Floor Vote: If the committee approves the bill, it goes before the entire chamber (House or Senate) for debate and a vote.
  4. Second Chamber: If the bill passes one chamber, it goes through the same process in the other chamber. There may be revisions to reconcile differences between the two versions.
  5. Reaching the President: Once both chambers approve an identical version of the bill, it’s sent to the President.
  6. Presidential Action: The President has three choices:
    • Sign the bill: The bill becomes law.
    • Veto the bill: The bill is sent back to Congress with reasons for disapproval. Congress can try to override the veto with a two-thirds vote in both chambers.
    • Pocket Veto (inaction): If the President doesn’t sign the bill within 10 days while Congress is in session, it dies. (This doesn’t apply if Congress adjourns before the 10 days.)
  7. Law of the Land: If the President signs or Congress overrides a veto, the bill becomes law and is enforced.

The Constitution’s Role:

The Constitution establishes the legislative branch (Congress) with the power to “make all Laws which shall be necessary and proper” (Article I, Section 8). It also creates a system of checks and balances:

  • Bicameralism: Having two chambers (House and Senate) ensures more deliberation before a bill becomes law.
  • Presentation Clause: The President can influence legislation by signing or vetoing bills.
  • Veto Override: Congress can check the President’s power by overriding a veto with a supermajority.

This process ensures that laws go through multiple stages of review and approval before becoming effective, reflecting the principles laid out in the Constitution.

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 Constitution Day

September 13, 2023

The United States celebrates Constitution Day on September 17th to commemorate when delegates came together in Philadelphia at the Constitutional Convention in 1787 and signed the U.S. Constitution into law. It is the supreme law of the land and establishes the basic framework of the U.S. government.

There are many ways to celebrate Constitution Day. You can attend educational programs or read the 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, to stay connected with the principles that have made America a bastion of democracy throughout its history.

Here are some ideas for how to celebrate Constitution Day:

  • Attend an educational program about the Constitution.
  • Visit the National Archives and see the original Constitution.
  • Read the Constitution and discuss it with your family or friends.
  • Watch a documentary about the Constitution.
  • Participate in a community event that celebrates the Constitution.
  • Volunteer your time to help others learn about the Constitution.

No matter how you choose to celebrate, Constitution Day is a great time to reflect on the importance of the United States Constitution and the rights and responsibilities of citizenship.

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: Government Book Talk Editor 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).


Native American Day

September 21, 2022

September 23 is Native American Day. In recognition of the important contributions Native Americans have made to our country, the US Government Bookstore is featuring the Smithsonian Institution multi-volume hardcover reference Handbook of North American Indians series.

The Handbook of North American Indians print series is a fascinating fourteen-volume collection. It is the ultimate resource for Native American history across various regions of North America. The set summarizes what’s known about the prehistory, history, and cultures of North America’s aboriginal peoples north of central Mexico’s urban civilizations.

Volumes in this set feature specific tribes located in geographic areas across the U.S., including The Plains, Great Basin, Arctic, Northwest Coast, Southwest, California, North, and South East. It also describes Indians in Contemporary Society, Indian-white relations, languages, and more.

Learn about the important contributions of Native Americans in this popular hardcover reference series about North American Indians from the Smithsonian Institution.

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).


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.


Publications for the 4th of July

July 2, 2021

The 4th of July holiday is a great time for our Nation to reflect on the blessings of being a beacon of hope and democratic freedoms. There’s no better time than the days ahead to read about American History and remember why we celebrate Independence Day. Visit the U.S. Government Bookstore and start your journey back to the years that shaped America to this day.

Our American History collection of titles offer unique insights into our Nation’s early past, including an extensive collection about the history of the American Indian tribes. Also, consider the beautiful set of colorful posters depicting important events in the history of America such as the Philadelphia 1776 (Poster), and the British Redcoat, 1775-1783 (Poster). These posters provide detailed information about the period during the Revolutionary War. The Continental Soldier in the War for American Independence (Poster) features a different set of historic details and colorful graphics about the American Army during the Revolutionary War.

Be amazed by the seldom told stories of those who fought to ensure our Union was free of European domination and how the American West was once the domain of native Americans. The GPO Bookstore offers poster art and interesting stories from the Revolutionary War to enjoy, honor and memorialize America’s earliest days. Reading these publications is a perfect way to celebrate the founding of America, 245 years ago on Independence Day, July 4th, 1776. You can find it all by visiting https://bookstore.gpo.gov/catalog/pre-us-colonial-american-history.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCES?

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

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

Order by Phone 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.


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.

 


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.