WASHINGTON – An agency whose mission has been producing, publishing, and recording our Nation’s history has made some history of its own.  Section 1301 of H.R. 83, the legislation providing consolidated and further continuing appropriations for FY 2015 that was recently passed by Congress and signed into law last night by President Barack Obama, changes the name of the Government Printing Office to the Government Publishing Office.  Publishing reflects the increasingly prominent role that GPO plays in providing access to Government information in digital formats through the agency's Federal Digital System, apps, eBooks, and related technologies. The information needs of Congress, Federal agencies, and the public have evolved beyond only print and GPO has transformed itself to meet its customers' needs.

"This is a historic day for GPO. Publishing defines a broad range of services that includes print, digital, and future technological advancements. The name Government Publishing Office better reflects the services that GPO currently provides and will provide in the future," said Davita Vance-Cooks, who now holds the title of  Director of the Government Publishing Office,  the agency's chief executive officer.  "I appreciate the efforts of the Members of Congress for their support and understanding GPO’s transformation.  GPO will continue to meet the information needs of Congress, Federal agencies, and the public and carry out our mission of Keeping America Informed." 

GPO opened its doors on March 4, 1861, the same day Abraham Lincoln was sworn into office as President of the United States.  Since that day, GPO employees have produced our country’s most important documents such as the preliminary version of the Emancipation Proclamation, The Warren Commission Report, The 9-11 Commission Report, the U.S. passport, the Federal Budget, and all Congressional materials.