Describes the major departments and agencies of the federal government and lists their officials.

The United States Government Manual 2009-2010 provides comprehensive information on the agencies of the legislative, judicial, and executive branches, As well as quasi-official agencies, international organisations in which the United States participates, boards, commissions, and committees. Each agency's description consists of a list of principal officials; a summary statement of the agency's purpose and role in the Federal Government; a brief history of the agency, including its legislative or executive authority; and a description of consumer activities, contracts and grants, employment, and publications.