Thursday, December 6, 2012

The Plum Book, in the Reading Room, with an iPad

Earlier this week, the U.S. Government Printing Office announced the release of the 2012 United States Policy and Supporting Positions, better known by its nickname: "the Plum Book." Published every four years following the presidential election, the Plum Book provides a listing of more than 8,000 presidentially-appointed federal government positions, along with information about the current employees (where applicable).

The volume is divided into the three branches of government, then by department, agency or office (see Table of Contents). The Plum Book also includes a breakdown of positions subject to non-competitive appointment, as well as federal salary schedules. For those who aspire to a career in federal politics, the Plum Book is an essential resource; for others, it's an interesting view of the inner workings of Washington, D.C.

Although the Goodson Law Library no longer receives the Plum Book in print format, it is available free in PDF and text formats through GPO's FDsys website. For the first time ever, it is also available in a mobile version.

Important Note: The Plum Book is not to be confused with:

For help accessing the Plum Book (or any other title in this reading rainbow), be sure to Ask a Librarian.