Imagine, if you will, a world without accessible information from the U.S. government. The Government Publishing Office ensures that doesn’t happen. It stands at 732 North Capitol Street NW. It is a cornerstone of democracy in Washington D.C.
The United States Government Publishing Office, or GPO, has a rich history. It began operations on March 4, 1861. That was the same day Abraham Lincoln was sworn in as president. Originally named the Government Printing Office, it was created by a congressional joint resolution in 1860. In December 2014, an act of Congress changed its name to the Government Publishing Office. This reflected its move to digital document production.
For its entire history, the GPO has been located on the corner of North Capitol Street NW and H Street NW. The red brick building was erected in 1903. It stands out among the marble and granite government buildings in the city.
The GPO produces and distributes information for all three branches of the federal government. This includes U.S. passports for the Department of State. It also publishes official documents from the Supreme Court, Congress, and the President.
The Director of the Government Publishing Office is appointed by the President. The Senate must also approve the appointment. The Director then selects a Superintendent of Documents. This person oversees the dissemination of information. This is done through programs like the Federal Depository Library Program.
The GPO also provides online access to government information through GovInfo. This website offers free access to publications like the Congressional Record and the Federal Register.
The GPO’s mission is to keep America informed. This motto reflects its commitment to providing access to government information. The GPO has a police force. Its officers protect people and property within GPO premises. They can make arrests for federal and state law violations.
The GPO has evolved over the years. It has embraced computer technology and digital publishing. This has led to a decrease in staff. However, its commitment to providing information remains unchanged.
The GPO also produces the U.S. Government Publishing Office Style Manual. This guide sets the standards for government publications. It ensures consistency and clarity. The Government Publishing Office contracts out much of the Federal government’s printing. It prints the official journals of government in-house.
The GPO has played a role in significant moments in American history. Within 18 months of the Civil War’s first shots, it prepared a crucial war order for President Lincoln. This order acted as a precursor to the Emancipation Proclamation. The GPO has been producing U.S. passports since the 1920s. Today, it produces blank e-Passports.
The Government Publishing Office is more than just a printing service. It is a vital part of the U.S. government. It ensures that citizens have access to the information they need to participate in democracy. Its work supports transparency and accountability in government.