Resources for Art in Online Government Information

Abstract

Government information in paper and digital formats is a rich resource for fine art, graphic art and images for library users. Over the history of our country, U.S. federal and state governments published artwork, illustrations, graphics, maps, photographs, posters, portraits and illustrations, and now much of this artwork can be accessed through digital collections. There is usually no charge to access this information and very few copyright restrictions. Indiana state government information provides a wealth of artwork relating to our state, both current and historical. This article will discuss the type of art available in online government information and describes selected exemplary resources issued by the U.S. federal and Indiana state governments. Only some of the vast wealth of resources will be highlighted. Art resources inspiring to children will be included. Hopefully, this introduction to artwork in online government information will inspire librarians from all kinds of libraries to refer to this information regularly.