Government Information

Federal Depository Library

This library is a Congressionally designated depository for U.S. Government documents.

Public access to the Government documents is guaranteed by public law (Title 44 U.S.C.).

Search for Government Information in the Ellender Library

About Us

As a U.S. Government Depository Library, we join around 1200 other depository libraries and a long tradition of providing access to government information. We receive print and electronic publications from the U.S. Government Publishing Office and make these available to the residents of the Sixth Congressional District of Louisiana.

The Ellender Memorial Library is also a member of the Louisiana State Document Depository Library Program. We receive print and electronic publications from Louisiana state agencies. This collection, as well as the federal collection, is located on the third floor of the library in the Government Information Department. Assistance is available from the Government Information staff. We welcome both the University community and the public to use our collections.

Online Government Information

Many government publications are now produced only in an online format. Navigating the mass of government information available on the Internet can be challenging. Click on the tabs on the left side of the page to find links to federal and state government information. If you are unsure of what you are looking for, click on the Getting Started tab. 

Center of Excellence

The Library's Government Information is part of the Association of Southeastern Libraries’ Center of Excellence program. As a member of this program, we provide a comprehensive collection of documents produced by the National Marine Fisheries Service. This collection will be of great interest to those interested in fisheries and marine biology. Click on the National Marine Fisheries Service tab on the left for more information. 

Why Use Government Information?

• Reliability – Government Information can be the product of research at the highest level and it is often the most current information available on an issue.

• Primary Sources – Much government information – such as hearings and court cases – is considered primary source material.

• Authenticity – Many electronic government publications come with authentication seals.

• Comprehensiveness – With a few exceptions, research in almost any subject area is incomplete without consulting government sources.

• Responsibility – As citizens of a democracy, it’s our duty to be informed about governmental actions.

• Economy – Almost all government information is freely available to all users, not just Nicholls students. You have already paid for government information through your tax dollars so make use of it!