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The World Factbook is privileged to work with a team of highly talented graphic designers and cartographers. Each year, The World Factbook cover design is assigned to a new graphic designer who is asked to provide a unique and innovative visual concept that captures the spirit of The World Factbook. The Gallery of Covers displays the evolution and diversity of our cover designs since 1981.

In 2017, the Government Printing Office discontinued printing The World Factbook. Information about obtaining printed copies of past editions of the Factbook may be found on the Purchasing page. The World Factbook continues to produce cover designs for its annual online editions.

All editions of the Factbook from 2000 onward can be accessed on THE WORLD FACTBOOK ARCHIVE in the upper right portion of any page on the website. Alternatively, the ARCHIVE may be accessed by clicking on any of the years that appear highlighted in blue below.