The Federal Depository Library Program (FDLP) was established by Congress to ensure that the American public has free access to the extensive, complex, important and valuable information published by its government. For more that 130 years, libraries throughout the country that have been designated as depositories, have safeguarded the public’s right to know by collecting, organizing, maintaining, preserving and assisting users with information from the Federal government. The Selby Library has been a depository of the Federal Depository Library Program since 1970. It is a 48% select Depository, the largest south of Tampa. Publications range in formats from paper, video and microform, to electronic resources including, CD-ROM, DVD and Internet-based publications. They are issued by the executive, legislative and judicial branches of the government. The documents encompass official reports, statistical sources, legislative information, periodicals, policy analysis and general information guides. The publications are received with the understanding that they will be freely and readily available to the public. The documents are shelved and filed by the Superintendent of Documents Classification system. This system is based on issuing agency rather that on subject or personal author. Documents can be located by SUNCAT and at GPO. The collection, located on the second floor of the library, is accessible during regular library hours. Most materials are available for checkout. Come to the Reference Desk for assistance. Many basic government documents are available online. Publications in this "Basic Collection" are vital sources of information that support the public's right to know about the workings and essential activities of the Federal Government. This list of titles was first developed in 1977 and has been periodically updated since then. View the list here: Essential Federal Government Information Online.