The federal government yesterday launched The U.S. Government Channel on YouTube. The channel aggregates videos from more than 25 federal agencies. You can find government jobs, community service opportunities or learn how to apply for government benefits all from YouTube. Information Week today pointed out that the launch of a government channel on YouTube came after Google decided to create a government version of its embeddable video player that does not deposit a cookie on the viewer’s computer until the video play button has been clicked.

In the video below Macon Phillips, White House Director of New Media, gives an overview of how the Obama Administration is using new media to connect with people and deliver on their promise of transparency and openness in government:

Other government sites and social media applications:

Data.gov – Yesterday the office of federal CIO Vivek Kundra launched Data.gov, which allows public access to large data sets of information from all federal agencies. If the site grows as predicted, it could offer incredibly valuable information for businesses and non-profit organizations (e.g. market research, consumption surveys, etc).

WhiteHouse.gov – the blog is the main source of information, featuring recent news and a behind the scenes look at White House Operations. The site delivers content through videos podcast and live streams.

Recovery.gov – track the spending and impact of the economic recovery act

TroopTube – a video sharing site to help connect soldiers with their family and supporters

Serve.gov – find volunteer opportunities

Blogs – More than 30 federal agencies are blogging

Flickr – Library of Congress photostream (amazing pictures!)

Peertopatent.gov (Patent & Trademark Office) – Enables the public to submit information and comments on pending patents

USA.gov – online chat, email and phone to answer questions about government

Widgets – The FBI is offering widgets to spread information about missing people and most wanted fugitives

Twitter – @USAgov, @dipnote (State Department)

Facebook Apps: The National Park service developed a Facebook app to allow you to share stories and photos from trips to national parks and The State Department uses Facebook to engage the public in discussion surrounding world wide meetings and diplomatic events.