Serial Set

Long Explanation

The United States Congressional Serial Set is commonly referred to as the Serial Set. Publication of Serial Set volumes began in 1817 (15th Congress). The consecutively-numbered books compile congressional publications for physical distribution. The term Serial Set is used because each volume in the series has a unique number that is useful for locating an item within the series. Congressional publications compiled within the Serial Set include Congressional Reports, House Documents and Senate Documents. Executive-branch materials were published in the Serial Set during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Congressional publications prior to 1817 may be found in the American State Papers.

In practice, Serial Set is useful because it helps a visitor connect a word or phrase to government records, official decisions, public services, or civic responsibilities. When you see the term in an official source, ask which office has authority, what decision is being made, which deadline or rule matters, and where the public record can be checked.

Examples

Common Misconception

A common mistake is treating Serial Set as a slogan instead of a term connected to a specific public process. The safest approach is to ask what authority, document, deadline, office, or public record gives the term its meaning.

Related Terms

Legislative ProcessSenateHouseGovernment ResourcesExecutive Presidency