School of Information Resources and Library Science

Short Paper (2-3 pages) Total possible points: 15
Due: September 16th at 11:59pm, submit via D2L.
Find a definition of government information and also an example of a government authored information resource. It can be in paper or on the Web. Paper should include the definition and citation for the definition. For the document/publication/information resource, include:

• location information (citation or URL)
• Explain what governmental body created it and what information it conveys
• What branch of government does the agency (author) belong to?
• What is its purpose (the resource)?
• Is it available in additional formats at other locations (Web and/or paper)?
• Find an organizational chart for the government and describe where this agency exists in the hierarchy

Exercises: Working individually, complete 3 out of 4 exercises involving searches for government information. Due dates to be determined. Total possible points: 30

Final Project: Total possible points: 45

Part 1(10 points): 1 page summary of topic, why it is important and citations for at least two resources on the topic. Due: October 21th at 11:59pm, submit via D2L.
Part 2(35 points): Create a webpage that serves as a guide to an information policy issue. Due: December 12th at 11:59pm
Search the Web before finalizing your topic to be sure there’s not already a good guide to your topic. Your Webpage should include:

• A title that reflects the scope and treatment of your chosen topic
• Your name and a bit of pertinent information about you as the guide’s creator
• An overview of the topic and the policy considerations involved. The overview should:
a) provide your justification for choosing the topic – why is it a significant information policy concern or problem?
b) Identify key stakeholders and decision-makers
c) Provide a history of the issue
d) Outline the most significant aspects and implications
e) Detail current developments or those expected to take place in the near future
• A 2-4 paragraph evaluative description of the information-seeking strategies, search techniques, databases, and other resources you used to find useful material about your topic.
• An annotated bibliography of relevant print and electronic sources, some (but not all) must be government publications. This bibliography should include at least 12 different sources. Citations must conform to the Brief Guide to Citing Government Publications http://exlibris.memphis.edu/resource/unclesam/citeweb.html

Possible topics:
Electronic government records management
Metadata considerations for electronic government publications
Government’s removal of depository items from libraries and/or Websites
The Government Printing Office
Federal Depository Library Program and electronic dissemination of government information
Children’s access to the Internet
GPO Access
Government involvement in the Digital Divide
E-commerce and consumer protection
Archiving electronic government publications

Participation: Contribute substantive, insightful posts to the discussion boards. Total possible points: 10