Book excerpt: Local and regional government information is essential to government workers, corporate researchers, students, and many other citizens, but finding a city ordinance or a county report can be a daunting experience. This unique, timesaving, and easy-to-use reference guide offers strategies for locating local and regional government information, including what to look for, how and where to search, and what to expect. Leading users through the labyrinth of records and reports available from a wide variety of sources, this guide provides tips on how to use sources effectively and efficiently in real-world research. An accessible overview covers the different types of government documents, how local governments are organized, and how to contact government agencies and archives. The guide also describes the major general indexes and bibliographies covering local government information, including the Index to Current Urban Documents and the BRB Public Record Research System. Whether researching census records, looking up local laws and regulations, or determining eligibility for government assistance, this reference offers indispensable assistance.