Updated Superintendent of Documents Letter: Libraries and Public Access

In 2020, restrictions on physical access were allowed to address concerns about access to Government resources as libraries reopened after the COVID-19 lockdown. GPO recognized that libraries needed flexibility in access to their libraries and collections as local health guidelines were implemented and changed during the pandemic.

As public access to Government information is a key statutory obligation of depository libraries, the Superintendent of Documents is updating public access requirements for depository collections. Since most restrictions on gatherings and building access have been lifted by local health authorities, temporary restrictions on physical access permitted during COVID-19 should now be phased out. Please see the revised letter of January 10, 2023 here.

If your library has questions or concerns, please submit an askGPO inquiry.