This goes to the accessibility and reliability of information, which is squarely within the purview of academic libraries. I think that general topic is worthy of our attention, and I think the particular example Natalie mentioned falls appropriately within that topic.
Recall in January 2025, there was some concern about the removal of information from government sites. Harvard library began archiving such information so that it wouldn't disappear. That's another example that could be mentioned.
Best,
Jim Abernathy
Reference Law Librarian
Young Law Library
University of Arkansas School of Law
Office: 479-575-7958
Waterman Hall, Rm 202B | 1045 W. Maple St.
University of Arkansas | Fayetteville, AR 72701
jima@uark.edu
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Jim Abernathy
Reference Librarian
University of Arkansas Law School Library - Fayetteville, AR
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Original Message:
Sent: Oct 16, 2025 11:49 AM
From: Natalie Marquez
Subject: Government website messaging
Hi all,
Most of you have noticed some peculiar messaging that is being posted on some government websites. Examples of messaging are below:
My question to you all-is this something we should add to the Impacts to Higher Education under the 'Direct' section? Some of my colleagues and I are disturbed by this messaging, especially seeing this during one-shots. This makes it harder to teach students that government data is reliable, unbiased and prejudiced.
I look forward to your thoughts.
Sincerely,
Natalie M.
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Natalie Marquez
Reference Library Assistant
University of California, Irvine
She/Her/Hers
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