The function of the Georgia State Library was to serve as an official depository for copies of publications relating to state government, i.e. reports, bulletins and other printed matter published by an agency of the State of Georgia. It was a specialized library maintained for the benefit of all citizens in the state, with special emphasis on serving government officials, agencies and members of the bench and bar. The State Librarian was also designated exchange officer for the regular systematic exchange of public documents between Georgia and other states. The State Library was founded as early as 1847, when the General Assembly first officially recognized its existence by authorizing the Governor to appoint a State Librarian. In 1972 the State Library was transferred to the Department of Law. The State Library published a checklist of publications available on exchange with other libraries. These checklists are updated quarterly.