While an online format is now the primary method of making publications available to Federal depository libraries, there are specific titles that are to remain available for selection in paper format. These titles contain critical information about the U.S. Government or are important reference publications for libraries and the public, and their availability for selection in paper format has been deemed essential for the purposes of the FDLP. These titles are compiled under Essential Titles for Public Use in Paper or Other Tangible Format, also known simply as the Essential Titles List.

The list was developed using input provided by the depository library community, which makes it a valuable aid in building a collection. Everything on the list has been identified by the depository community as a key resource. However, there is no requirement that depository libraries select all the titles on the list.

Some things to note:

• Titles may be added or removed from this list.
  
  
  • Titles recommended by the library community will be considered for inclusion in this list.
  • Titles will be removed when it has been determined that the agency has ceased publication in paper.
  • Major changes in the operations or funding of the FDLP may cause this list to be modified at any time.
  • A title can only be included on this list so long as the originating agency continues to publish it in paper.
• Publications not available in electronic format, as well those determined to be appropriate for distribution in tangible format under the Superintendent of Documents' Dissemination/Distribution Policy for the Federal Depository Library Program (SOD 301, dated September 28, 2006), will be distributed in tangible format.
• Selection of the U.S. Congressional Serial Set and the bound Congressional Record, included in the Essential Titles list, is limited to regional depository libraries and one designated library in each state without a regional.