Congressional Support Services

The largest library in the world, serving as the research arm of Congress and the de facto national library of the United States. Founded in 1800.

• Over 170 million items in its collections
• Houses the Congressional Research Service (CRS)
• Administers the U.S. Copyright Office
• Provides accessible formats for the blind and print-disabled

A division within the Library of Congress that provides non-partisan policy analysis exclusively to members of Congress and their staff.

• Produces confidential research reports on policy issues
• Provides expert testimony and consultation
• Analyzes pending legislation
• Employs over 600 policy analysts, attorneys, and information specialists

Often called the “congressional watchdog,” the GAO audits and evaluates federal programs and expenditures on behalf of Congress.

• Investigates how taxpayer dollars are spent
• Provides legal opinions on appropriations
• Reports on government fraud, waste, and abuse
• Led by the Comptroller General, appointed to a 15-year term

Provides non-partisan budgetary and economic analysis to Congress. Created in 1974 to give Congress independent expertise on fiscal matters.

• “Scores” legislation for its budgetary impact
• Produces economic forecasts
• Analyzes the President's budget proposals
• Reports on long-term budget outlooks and debt projections

Responsible for the maintenance, operation, and preservation of the United States Capitol Complex, including the Capitol Building and surrounding grounds.

• Maintains the Capitol Building, House and Senate office buildings
• Manages the Capitol Grounds and Botanic Garden
• Preserves historic art and artifacts
• Oversees the Capitol Visitor Center

The official printer for the federal government, responsible for producing and distributing government publications.

• Publishes the Congressional Record
• Prints bills, laws, and federal regulations
• Operates GovInfo.gov for public access to documents
• Maintains the Federal Depository Library Program