Unlocking the Power of Government Information: Part 1. The People's Information

This training session is the Part 1 of Kelley Center's government information literacy instruction series to unlock the power of government information. 

"Knowledge will forever govern ignorance; and a people who mean to be their own governors must arm themselves with the power which knowledge gives." - James Madison.

Mastering the ability to find and use government information is a fundamental skill. This competency empowers you to ensure that you can fully exercise your right to know and engage with the world in an informed way.

In this introductory session, we'll explore the vast and invaluable world of government information—a resource that belongs to every citizen and taxpayer as a fundamental right. Understanding and accessing this information is a skill and a responsibility. This session will cover:

  • Types of government publications
  • Definition of government information
  • The Special Relationship Between Governments and Libraries: A Gateway to Citizen Access
  • Government Documents as Best-Sellers: High-Profile Reports and Their Impact
  • Government Documents on Popular Issues
  • Empowering Fact-Checking: Using Government Information to Verify and Understan
  • Controversies and Challenges: The Complex Landscape of Government Information
  • Government Information as a Source of Historical Insight
  • Beyond Federal Documents
  • Issues in government information in the Digital Age

This session will lay the foundation for your journey into government information literacy. Whether you’re a researcher, student, or simply a curious citizen, this session will equip you with the foundational knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of government information. 

Eligibility

This training is free and open to the public.

Contact:

Anna Xiong, Government Information Coordinator and FDLP Representative at Fondren Library, jax2@rice.edu

Date/Time
-
Location
This is online course via zoom. The zoom link will be sent after the registration.
Registration Form
Some short courses are offered multiple times each semester, please enter the course date/time you wish to register.
Rice Affiliation
* Denotes that Friends of Fondren Library membership is required for classes offered by the GIS/Data Center and Digital Media Commons. Government Information classes like Patents and Trademarks, Census and Microforms do not require a membership.
For example, Fondren Calendar of Events, Email blast, Events@Rice, Fondren digital signage, word of mouth