What is a government document?

According to the Federal Library Depository Act of 1962, a government document is defined as “informational matter which is published as an individual document at government expense, or as required by law” (44 U.S.C. § 1901)

In general, most publications issued by government agencies are considered government documents. These publications may be produced in a variety of formats, including printed paper, microfiche, and audiovisual materials. In recent years, government information resources have been expanded to include computerized formats such as CD-ROMs, DVDs, and Internet sites.