The Federal Depository Library Program (FDLP), Academic Libraries, and Access to Government Information

The electronic environment has significantly shifted library capabilities and user expectations for the delivery of government information and services. At the same time, many laws of the federal government have pushed for the creation and distribution of government information through electronic channels. However, the Federal Depository Library Program (FDLP) continues as though these changes will not have a large impact on the program. It is time for a meaningful reevaluation of the FDLP program and approaches to government information by academic libraries generally. Drawing upon a range of library research and policy analysis, this paper argues for changes in both concept and practice in the provision of government information by FDLP and other academic libraries and in the educational preparation of future academic librarians. Further, this paper asserts that such a discussion needs to occur beyond considerations of the current economic environment, which some libraries may view as a reason to restructure the FDLP to achieve cost reductions.