The Georgia Open Records Helpline is a project from me – Carl Appen.

I've spent years helping (brilliant) journalists report on all things local government.

A critical element of that work involves navigating public records. Finding, requesting and using this information is key for understanding how local governments work.

Over the years I have developed a keen understanding of how Sunshine Laws function in the State of Georgia and around the country. I've learned how local governments interact with records throughout the course of doing business. Most importantly I've picked up tools and tricks for how to actually get your hands on these materials and make sense of them.

This project is a way to share that information. I'll have resources and guides here that anyone – not just journalists – can use to acquire, understand and utilize public records for the betterment of their communities.

My hope is that folks can use these tools in their own work and personal lives.

A few quick rules of the road:

• These resources are free to use.
• You don't need to attribute this project in any way. (If you do, that's great!)
• I'm not an attorney and this information should not be taken as legal advice.

If you find it useful, I encourage you to share it with others. I also love hearing from folks who have used this information, so drop me a line if you do.

If you have any questions at all, or just want to talk records, please reach out to me. I'm always happy to troubleshoot issues you may be having with your own public records requests or help advise on any stories you may be tackling. Again, no attribution or commitment needed.

Happy hunting,
Carl