Department of State services to the public - Directory

US Department of State Dispatch, August 22, 1994

Historical Documentation

Office of the Historian Bureau of Public Affairs U.S. Department of State Washington, DC 20520

Tel: 202-663-1122

Fax: 202-663-1289

The Bureau of Public Affairs, Office of the Historian, selects and publishes the official record of U.S. foreign policy in the documentary series, Foreign Relations of the United States. The series, which began in 1861, now comprises more than 350 individual volumes. Each volume documents the major foreign policy decisions and diplomatic activity of the U.S. Government and contains declassified records from the White House, the Department of State, and other foreign affairs agencies. Volumes dealing with the Kennedy and Johnson Administrations are now being researched and released. A schedule of planned and forthcoming volumes is available and periodically updated. Information on the availability of published volumes--including microfiche supplements and future volumes in electronic form--may be obtained from the Office of the Historian.

Historical reference works may also be obtained from the Historian's Office. They include lists of principal officers of the Department and U.S. Chiefs of Mission from 1776 to 1990; lists of visits of U.S. Presidents to foreign countries, 1906-1989; and lists of foreign travels of the Secretaries of State, 1866-1990.

The Office also prepares special studies on various topics relating to U.S. foreign policy and provides research information and guidance to scholars, students, and the general public.

Liaison With the American Public

The Bureau of Public Affairs, Office of Public Liaison, assists groups and organizations in arranging for Department of State officials to participate in a variety of public affairs activities.

Speakers' and Briefings Programs. The State Department provides speakers to organizations throughout the United States. Regional foreign policy town meetings are co-sponsored by the Department and local organizations. Senior Department of State officials participate in these meetings, which are designed to encourage the free exchange of information and opinion. While a speaker is in the city or area, other events are scheduled (e.g., media interviews, informal discussions with business and community leaders, visits to academic institutions). Call 202-647-2176.

Washington Programs. Large groups of opinion leaders from business, education, ethnic, environmental, and other non-governmental entities can request assistance in organizing a foreign policy conference in the Department or in the Washington, DC, metropolitan area. Seminars and special briefings can be arranged for smaller groups to meet with Department officials for informal discussions on topics of particular interest. Call 202-647-1710.

If you are interested in any of the above services, please call the appropriate number listed above or write:

Office of Public Liaison Bureau of Public Affairs U.S. Department of State Washington, DC 20520-6810

Fax: 202-647-1579

Public Information

To obtain information and to express opinions on foreign affairs issues, contact: