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Consumer Information Catalog

Consumer Information Catalog

In one way or another the government is one of the biggest publishers in the country. They have long churned out everything from in-depth statistical reports to tri-fold glossy brochures about a vast array of subjects. There are so many that it’s almost impossible to  find them all.

Finding Government Publications

Back in 1971, the government started a small paper catalog letting you know about many of the publications that were available from the government for free or a small fee. You’ve probably seen the catalogs around as giveaways in libraries and you may remember their clever commercials that would always end with a reminder for you to write for them at their Pueblo, Colorado headquarters.

They told you how to get a hold of useful booklets, pamphlets, and brochures the federal government produced. Sadly this Winter-Spring issue is the final catalog they will print. You can order using their form through Sept. 15, 2016.

Replacement System

Starting right now you can use their website http://usa.gov/explore

At this time it mostly seems to be information they wrote for very basic things rather than the big array available in the paper catalog, but there are a few links to information pages on other government websites directing you to find information through them.

Remember the Classic Way

Learn more about the old system from this short anniversary celebration in 2011:

Sarah Uthoff is a reference library at Kirkwood Community College. LIKE the Kirkwood Community College Library on Facebook and find links to Sarah all over the web at her About Me Profile.