Research Guides: Federal Administrative Law Research Guide: Agency Websites

Agency Websites

Information on Agency Websites

The information and features provided on agency websites can vary. However, agencies are required to make certain information available. Examples of information typically found include

Information about the history, organizational structure, personnel, mission and purpose of the agency
The agency's enabling legislation and other important legislation related to the agency's mission and programs
Agency regulations
Agency decisions
Agency interpretive, advisory and guidance documents
Agency enforcement documents
FOIA information.

The United States Government Internet Directory, edited by Shana Hertz Hattis (see below) offers a more complete summary of the types of information contained on agency websites. See also, the Digital.Gov web page, "Required Web Content and Links."

Resources for Locating Government Agency Websites & Information

United States Government Internet Directory by Shana Hertz Hattis, ed.
Call Number: Reference Office ZA5075 .G68
ISBN: 9781598887723
Publication Date: 12th ed. 2015
Published annually. The directory's chapters cover broad subject areas, e.g. agriculture, fishing and forestry, business and economics. This is an excellent source for locating agenicies by topic.

A-Z Index of U.S. Government Departments and Agencies
(USA.gov) A good source for locating department and agency websites by name.

Finding Defunct Agency Websites

CyberCemetery
(University of North Texas Libraries & the Federal Depository Library Program)
"The CyberCemtery is an archive of government web sites that have ceased operation (usually web sites of defunct government agencies and commissions that have issued a final report). This collection features a variety of topics indicative of the broad nature of government information."