Government Documents: History

The Library of Congress is the largest library in the world, with millions of books, recordings, photographs, newspapers, maps and manuscripts in its collections. The Library is the main research arm of the U.S. Congress and the home of the U.S. Copyright Office.

The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) is the nation's record keeper. Of all documents and materials created in the course of business conducted by the United States Federal government, only 1%-3% are so important for legal or historical reasons that they are kept by us forever.

Tourism, the arts and Kentucky heritage are the focus of our cabinet. Tourism development includes new attractions, new accommodations, expansion of existing tourism venues, convention/conference marketing, and sports venues. We encourage and provide support in market development for our artists, historic downtown redevelopment, film opportunities, equine headquarter expansion, expanding recreation opportunities, attracting international trade shows or sporting events, and expanding museums and special exhibits. All these activities contribute to Kentucky’s economic success.

This gallery highlights resources designed to enhance study of a few significant primary source documents from American history.

A collection of eBooks published by federal agencies on various historical topics.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation's historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service's National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America's historic and archeological resources.

The collections of the Prints & Photographs Division include photographs, fine and popular prints and drawings, posters, and architectural and engineering drawings. While international in scope, the collections are particularly rich in materials produced in, or documenting the history of, the United States and the lives, interests and achievements of the American people.

Since 1976 the Senate Historical Office has interviewed long-time staff and senators. These interviews cover the breadth of the 20th century and now the 21st century, and include a diverse group of personalities who witnessed events first-hand.

This webpage provides an overview of the purpose of the website and links to individual historical properties and regions of historical interest.

Search books, manuscripts, photographs, oral histories, microfilm, and other genealogical resources from the Kentucky Historical Society.