The Federal Depository Library Program (FDLP) was established by Congress to ensure that the American public has access to its Government's information. Since 1813, depository libraries have safeguarded the public's right to know by collecting, organizing, maintaining, preserving, and assisting users with information from the Federal Government. The FDLP provides Government information at no cost to designated depository libraries throughout the country and territories. These depository libraries, in turn, provide local, no-fee access to Government information in an impartial environment with professional assistance.*There are nine Federal Depository Libraries in Minnesota. In 1962, Memorial Library at Minnesota State University, Mankato, became one of those depositories. This enables the library to house documents from various federal agencies, including the Departments of Agriculture, Defense, Commerce, Education, Energy, Health & Human Services, the Interior, State and Treasury, as well as the Executive Office of the President, Congress, the Library of Congress, and the Smithsonian Institution. Documents from many sub-agencies, such as the Census Bureau, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association, National Climate Data Center, United States Geological Survey and the Center of Military History, are also available.
We are a selective depository, which means that 67% of the publications available through the depository library program are acquired. Selection is based on the perceived educational, informational and recreational needs of the university community and the region at large. The materials selected are intended to support the University curriculum, as well as the general needs of students, staff, and the public.
*(http://www.access.gpo.gov/su_docs/fdlp/about.html)
