What are Government Documents?

Government documents refer to publications and materials produced by government agencies and bodies at various levels of government—local, regional, national, and international. These documents serve as a valuable source of information for researchers, policymakers, and the public. Government documents can cover a wide range of subjects and formats, including reports, studies, laws, regulations, statistical data, maps, and more. 

Types of Government Documents

Legislative Documents: Laws and statutes; Congressional reports; Congressional hearings; Committee print

Executive Branch Documents: Reports and publications from government agencies; Presidential papers and speeches; Administrative regulations

Judicial Documents: Court decisions; Legal opinions; Case law

Statistical Publications: Census data; Economic indicators; Social and demographic statistics

International Documents: Treaties and agreements; Diplomatic correspondence; International organization publications

Publications from Local Government: Municipal ordinances; City planning documents; Local government reports

Research and Policy Reports: Studies and research papers commissioned by government agencies; White papers and policy documents

Maps and Geospatial Data: Topographic maps; Geographic information system (GIS) data; Cartographic publications

Historical Documents: Archives of historical significance; Documents related to the history of the government

Educational Materials: Brochures, pamphlets, and educational materials produced by government agencies

Some Examples of Government Documents Publication

Legislative Documents:

• Committee Prints
• Congressional Hearing
• Congressional Report

Executive Branch Documents:

• Reports and publications from government agencies
• Presidential Papers

Judicial Documents

• Case law
• Legal Opinions