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).


Stay Informed with the U.S. Federal Register

April 10, 2025

The Federal Register is the official daily legal publication of the U.S. Federal Government, published by the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) in partnership with the Government Publishing Office (GPO). It is the authoritative source for various crucial Federal Government documents, providing comprehensive insights into the regulatory landscape and executive actions. Among the key categories of information found within its pages are:

  • Federal Agency Regulations: These detailed rules and guidelines, established by various federal agencies, govern a broad spectrum of national activities and industries.
  • Proposed Rules and Public Notices: This section offers a preview of potential future regulations, accompanied by public notices that alert citizens and organizations to upcoming hearings, meetings, grant application opportunities, and other administrative actions. This allows for informed participation in the rulemaking process.
  • Executive Orders: These legally binding directives, issued by the President of the United States, direct federal agencies and officials in the execution of their duties.
  • Proclamations: Formal public announcements issued by the President on national significance or observance matters.
  • Other Presidential Documents: This encompasses a range of additional official communications and directives from the President’s Executive Office.

The Federal Register is prepared for publication by NARA’s Office of the Federal Register in collaboration with the GPO, which distributes it in print and online.

This publication ensures transparency and allows citizens, businesses, and organizations to stay informed about and participate in the democratic process by providing access to essential information on federal actions.

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 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).


Understanding the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States

April 3, 2025

The Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) is a key resource for understanding international trade, particularly for imports into the United States. As the United States International Trade Commission (USITC) website describes, the “Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States sets out the tariff rates and statistical categories for all merchandise imported into the U.S. The HTS is based on the international Harmonized System, the global system of nomenclature applied to most world trade in goods.”

The Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the U.S. 37th Edition 2025 is currently available from the U.S. Government Bookstore and is the primary source for exporters.

Key Functions of the HTS:

  • Classification:
    • The HTS assigns a unique 10-digit code to each product based on its characteristics.
    • This code determines the applicable duty rate and any special requirements for the import process.
  • Duty Rates:
    • The HTS specifies the tariff rate (tax) that must be paid on imported goods.
    • These rates vary depending on the product category, country of origin, and applicable trade agreements.
  • Statistics:
    • The HTS helps track import data by classifying goods into specific categories.
    • This information is crucial for analyzing trade patterns and economic trends.

Understanding the HTS is essential for businesses importing goods into the U.S. It helps them determine their products’ classification, calculate potential import duties, and ensure smooth passage through customs.

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 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).


Understanding Tomorrow’s Battles

March 31, 2025

The global stage is increasingly defined by irregular warfare – think cyberattacks, global conflicts, and disinformation campaigns. A new publication available from the U.S. Government Publishing Office (GPO) Bookstore, The Future Faces of Irregular Warfare: Great Power Competition in the 21st Century, is a must-read for anyone wanting to grasp this evolving landscape.

The Future Faces of Irregular Warfare, from the Irregular Warfare Center, is an edited volume of essays on the future evolutions and trends of irregular warfare and competition. Written by leading scholars and practitioners of irregular warfare and national security, the book presents a forward-leaning analysis of how irregular warfare (IW) between the U.S. and its competitors is likely to play out in several key theatres, such as the Indo-Pacific and the Baltics, and in particular issue sets, such as climate change, misinformation and disinformation, economic coercion, and counterterrorism.

The publication provides a platform for helping policymakers, military professionals, and researchers understand and prepare for the challenges ahead. Read this timely resource to better understand a world in change.

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 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).


A Springtime Ritual: Keeping Your Trees Healthy

March 25, 2025

As nature awakens, so should your tree care routine. Spring pruning encourages vigorous growth and helps easily identify winter damage and defects. It’s essential to secure your trees’ health during this season. Pruning is crucial for maintaining tree health, safety, and aesthetic appeal. Here are two resources from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to help keep trees healthy.

How to Prune Trees provides help for correctly pruning trees. The objective of pruning is to produce strong, healthy, attractive plants. This can be achieved by understanding how, when, and why to prune and following simple principles such as making correct cuts and avoiding damage to the tree. The publication contains information regarding when to prune different types of trees, safety measures, and more.

How To Recognize Hazardous Defects in Trees. This brochure was created to help homeowners and land managers recognize hazardous defects in trees and to suggest possible corrective actions to restore trees to good health. It presents guidelines for identifying and correcting hazardous defects such as dead wood, cracks, weak branch unions, decay, cankers, root problems, and poor tree form. The publication also emphasizes the importance of identifying trees that pose a risk to “targets,” such as buildings, vehicles, or areas where people gather.

The key benefit of pruning is promoting tree health. Removing dead, diseased, or damaged branches prevents the spread of infection and pests, and improving airflow and sunlight penetration within the canopy reduces the risk of disease.

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).


Homeownership Resources

March 17, 2025

Purchasing a home is a major financial decision that can significantly impact a person’s life. If you are considering buying a new home or refinancing an existing mortgage, a great first step is to check out the following publications from the U.S. Government Publishing Office (GPO) bookstore.

Your Home Loan Toolkit: A Step-by-Step Guide takes home buyers through the home loan process in a breeze. This easy-to-understand toolkit includes interactive worksheets, checklists, smart research tips, financing terms, helpful conversation points to discuss with lenders, and much more. The guide also provides the closing disclosure to help home buyers become more comfortable accepting financial documents.

What You Should Know About Home Equity Lines of Credit (HELOC). This booklet can help you explore and understand your options when borrowing against the equity in your home. After you finish this booklet, you’ll understand the effect of borrowing against your home, various financing options, how to get the best HELOC, and what to do if the economy or your situation changes.

There are many benefits to homeownership, including:

  • Building equity: When you own a home, you build equity in the property. This means you are essentially paying yourself back for purchasing your home over time.
  • Tax benefits: Homeowners can deduct mortgage interest and property taxes from their federal income taxes.
  • Financial stability: Homeowners tend to be more financially stable than renters. This is because they have a fixed monthly mortgage payment, which can help them build a strong credit history.
  • Sense of community: Homeowners invest more in their communities than renters. This is because they have a stake in the property and want to see it thrive.

Homeownership can be a great investment, but it is important to ensure you are prepared for the responsibilities and costs. By researching and planning, you can increase your chances of success as a homeowner.

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 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).


Books We Love

March 13, 2025

Have you been reading some fascinating books lately? We wanted to share a few that are very popular among our customers. These aren’t your typical casual reads but are essential for anyone interested in preparedness, navigation, and keeping things safe.

Here’s a glimpse into current favorites:

Emergency Response Guidebook 2024 Edition: This is a must-have for first responders. It’s intended for use during the initial phase of a transportation incident involving hazardous materials/dangerous goods.

Emergency Response to Terrorism: Job Aid Understanding how to respond to potential threats is crucial today. This book provides insights into emergency protocols and strategies for dealing with terrorism-related incidents.

Nautical Almanac for the Year 2025: This almanac is a treasure for those who love the sea (or are fascinated with celestial navigation). It provides detailed astronomical data for precise navigation, a true classic.

Navigational Rules and Regulations Handbook: Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a novice boater, knowing the rules of the water is paramount. This book lays out the essential regulations for safe and responsible navigation.

The Lead-Safe Certified Guide to Renovate Right: This guide is essential if planning home renovations, especially in older buildings. It provides crucial information on safely handling lead-based paint and protecting yourself and your family.

These books offer a blend of practical knowledge and specialized information. We believe they’re valuable additions to any library, whether you’re a professional or a curious reader.

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 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).


The Essential Guide to the Skies: The FAA Air Traffic Control Handbook

March 7, 2025

Ever wonder how thousands of planes navigate the skies safely every day? The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Air Traffic Control Handbook (FAA Order 7110.65) is the definitive guide that lays out the procedures and protocols that keep our skies safe and efficient. It’s the go-to resource for air traffic controllers and a valuable resource for pilots, aviation enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the intricacies of air traffic management.

This handbook isn’t just a dry set of rules. It’s a living document, constantly updated to reflect the latest technologies, procedures, and safety standards. It covers everything from basic communication protocols to complex radar procedures, ensuring controllers have the tools to manage the ever-increasing volume of air traffic.

What’s Inside?

  • Communication Procedures: Standard phraseology, radio etiquette, and emergency communication protocols.
  • Radar Procedures: How controllers use radar to track and guide aircraft, including separation standards and vectoring techniques.
  • Non-Radar Procedures: How controllers manage traffic in areas without radar coverage, using position reports and other methods.
  • Airport Operations: Procedures for managing traffic in and around airports, including runway assignments and ground control operations.
  • Emergency Procedures: How controllers respond to emergencies, such as engine failures, medical emergencies, and weather hazards.

Also, consider these related publications for historical context and helpful information: Location Identifiers, 7350.7,  Plane Sense, General Aviation Information, and Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge.

Whether you’re a professional in the aviation industry or simply curious about how it all works, the FAA Air Traffic Control Handbook provides a fascinating glimpse into the world of air traffic control. It’s a testament to the dedication and expertise of the men and women who work tirelessly to keep our skies safe.

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).


NEW! Federal Benefits for Veterans

February 26, 2025

The essential guide for Veterans, their families, and survivors is here! The Veterans Affair’s (VA) Federal Benefits for Veterans, Dependents, Survivors, and Caregivers 2025 provides the most current details on benefits and services, and available resources. These benefits can significantly assist with various needs, including healthcare, education, housing, financial assistance, and more.

Key categories of benefits include:

  • Healthcare: Comprehensive healthcare services, including preventive care, treatment for service-connected and non-service-connected conditions, and mental health care. Eligibility for healthcare varies depending on factors like discharge status and service duration.
  • Education: Scholarships, grants, and loan programs for veterans and eligible dependents to pursue higher education. Programs like the GI Bill® can help cover tuition and living expenses.
  • Housing: There are home loan programs with favorable terms, including the VA Home Loan. There is also mortgage assistance and grants for adapting homes for veterans with disabilities.
  • Financial Assistance: Disability compensation for veterans who experience service-connected disabilities and pension benefits for low-income veterans who served during wartime.

Staying informed and seeking personalized guidance from the VA is crucial to ensure you receive the full range of benefits you and your loved ones may be entitled to.

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 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).


Diving Deep: Joint Force Quarterly

February 21, 2025

For the last several months, we have featured our popular subscription journals, which provide a wide-ranging intellectual forum for discussing policy, regulatory updates, and more.

The Joint Force Quarterly (JFQ) is a vital resource for those involved in or interested in the complexities of modern military operations. This professional military journal, published by the National Defense University Press, offers a deep dive into joint warfare’s strategic, operational, and tactical aspects.

What makes JFQ stand out?

It’s more than just a collection of articles. It’s a forum for thought leadership where military professionals, academics, and policymakers contribute their expertise to address the challenges facing today’s armed forces. Why you should consider exploring JFQ:

  • Expert Insights: The journal features articles written by seasoned military leaders, subject matter experts, and researchers, providing firsthand perspectives and in-depth analysis.
  • Joint Warfare Focus: JFQ emphasizes the importance of joint operations, highlighting the need for collaboration and integration across different military branches.
  • Relevant Topics: From emerging technologies and cyber warfare to regional security and strategic planning, JFQ covers a wide range of critical national security topics.
  • Professional Development: Whether you are a military professional seeking to enhance your knowledge or a civilian interested in defense policy, JFQ offers valuable insights and perspectives.

JFQ is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of modern warfare and the challenges facing the joint force.

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: 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).


Celebrate Black History Month

February 19, 2025

Black History Month is celebrated annually in February. It is a time to recognize the achievements of Black Americans and their central role in U.S. history. Black History Month honors the resilience, innovation, and leadership legacy that has shaped the nation from the civil rights movement to the arts, sciences, and politics.

Black Americans in Congress, 1870-2022, features the important history-making members elected to Federal office since 1870. This resource provides the most comprehensive history available on the 175 Black lawmakers who’ve served on Capitol Hill—from Senator Hiram R. Revels of Mississippi and Representative Joseph H. Rainey of South Carolina in 1870 to the first-term Members of the 117th Congress (2021–2023).

Here are some ways to celebrate Black History Month:

  • Learn about the history of Black Americans. Many resources, including books, articles, documentaries, and museum exhibits, are available online and in libraries.
  • Support Black businesses and organizations.
  • Attend a Black history event or celebration.
  • Read books and watch movies about Black history and culture.
  • Donate to organizations that support Black communities.
  • Talk to your friends and family about the importance of Black history.

By learning about and celebrating Black history, we can all help to create a more just and equitable society.

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).


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).