About Kelley Center for Government Information Resources & Civic Engagement
What is Government Information?
U.S. Code (44 U.S.C. 1901) defines a government document as "...informational matter which is published as an individual document at government expense or as required by law.”
Every governmental division produces documents, images, or artifacts that belong to the citizens of the United States and can be accessed through a variety of means online, by written request, through the Freedom of Information Act [FOIA], or by walking into many institutions and using their libraries or other resource station. [Read more]
What is civic engagement?
Civic engagement means working to make a difference in the civic life of our communities and developing the combination of knowledge, skills, values and motivation to make that difference. It means promoting the quality of life in a community, through both political and non-political processes. – Ehrlich, T. (2000). Civic responsibility and higher education. Phoenix, AZ: Oryx.
Civic engagement is "the active participation of individuals in their communities, aiming to improve social, political, and cultural life. It encompasses a wide range of activities, both political and non-political, that contribute to the well-being of the community." - AI.
What does Kelley Center offer?
The Kelley Center provides specialized cross-disciplinary resources and services—both historical and current—including:
Selective Federal Depository Library Program
Since its designation by Congress in March 23, 1967 (Depository #0608C, Congressional District 7), the Kelley Center has administered Fondren Library's selective Federal Depository Library Program. We provide free, equal, permanent, public access to authentic publications in partnership with the U.S. Government Publishing Office. Beyond access, we actively support permanent government records preservation through the TRAIL and LOCKSS programs, demonstrating our strong commitment to the mission of 'Keeping America Informed.'
Today, we work with a network of 1000+ Federal depository libraries to adapt these services to changing technology. For assistance, visit our Government Information LibGuide or contact your FDLP Representative at Fondren Library Kelley Center.
fdlp.gov
The Federal Depository Library Program (FDLP) is a national program established in 1813 authorized by 44 U.S.C. § 19.
- Its mission is “to keep America informed” AND “ensure that the American public has free equal and permanent access to government information”
- Its vision is "to provide Government information when and where it is needed in order to create informed citizenry and an improved quality of life." (FDLP Mission, Vision, & Values)
Special Historical Maps and Microform Collections
The Center manages over 55,000 print maps and atlases, an extensive microform archive, including a large, uncataloged set of AEC/Department of Energy documents on microfiche. Most maps and a significant portion of the microform collections are received through the U.S. Federal Depository Library Program (FDLP), with updates primarily provided in digital formats. However, these microforms and maps also include non-government U.S. and foreign publications. For assistance, visit our Map LibGuide, Microform Collections LibGuide, or contact Head of Kelley Center.
Civic Engagement
We spearhead Fondren Library’s civic engagement initiatives, fostering active citizenship through voter registration, civics education, and open access to government information.
Research Support
We assist faculty, students, and the public with interdisciplinary needs ranging from academic teaching and research to active citizenship. Connect with us to:
- Register for short courses and events.
- Request customized instruction or group tours.
- Schedule a consultation to find materials in our specialized collections.
Kelley Center Visitors
2026 Spring Schedule
Please note that these hours are subject to change.
Spring Hours
- If you need on site staff assistance, please email jax2@rice.edu to schedule an appointment.
- The Kelley Center physical collections (government publications, maps, microform collections) are in open stacks and can be accessed anytime Fondren Library is open. Check Fondren Library Building Hours.
Information Desk Hours
| Day | Time slot | Comment | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sun: | Closed | |||
| Mon - Thu: | 1:00 pm-6:00 pm | |||
| Fri: | 1:00 pm-5:00 pm | |||
| Sat: | Closed | |||
Contact Information
Email: govhelp@rice.edu
Phone: (713) 348-5483
Location: Fondren Library's basement.
Staff
- Kelley Center staff, Office Suite B38.
- Kelley Center student staff, Information Desk.
Mailing Address