Although the compilation is the best single source of detailed information about personal records maintained by Federal agencies, it is not necessary to consult the compilation before making a Privacy Act request. A requester is not required to identify the specific system of records that contains the information being sought. It is sufficient to identify the agency that has the records. Using information provided by the requester, the agency will determine which system of records has the files that have been requested. Those who request records under the Privacy Act can help the agency by identifying the type of records being sought.
Large agencies maintain hundreds of different record systems.
A request can be processed faster if the requester tells the agency that he or she was employed by the agency, was the recipient of benefits under an agency program, or had other specific contacts with the agency. The United States Government Manual is sold by the Superintendent of Documents of the U.S. Government Printing Office. Virtually every public library should have a copy. An electronic version of the Manual may be found on the Office of the Federal Register website provided at note 20 . In the past, agencies were required to publish an annual compilation in the Federal Register, but that requirement was eliminated in 1982.