Description

The Census is more than just a count of the number of people in a geographic area. The data collected determine the political power of our Congressional representatives, decide the amount of federal money that comes to our state, and help inform state, federal, and local agencies on policy issues related to its citizens. Its use extends beyond governments to social action groups, those seeking grant funding, small business owners, and the new resident wanting to learn more about their city. The recent release of data from the American Community Survey and the upcoming releases of 2010 Census information make it imperative for anybody working with the public and academic communities to have a solid knowledge of what the Census can do not only for their institution but for their primary patrons as well. This hands-on workshop will focus on helping attendees understand what data are available (and how it has changed over time), navigate the huge amount of Census data freely available from the US Census Bureau and other sites, and learn how to more effectively search key Census resources such as American Factfinder.

ABOUT THE PRESENTERS:

  • Kirsten Clark, Government Information and Regional Depository Librarian, University of Minnesota -Twin Cities
  • Amy West, Data Services Librarian, University of Minnesota -Twin Cities

Start Date

16-3-2011 2:30 PM

End Date

16-3-2011 4:00 PM

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Mar 16th, 2:30 PM Mar 16th, 4:00 PM

United States Census: Finding numbers, Using data

The Census is more than just a count of the number of people in a geographic area. The data collected determine the political power of our Congressional representatives, decide the amount of federal money that comes to our state, and help inform state, federal, and local agencies on policy issues related to its citizens. Its use extends beyond governments to social action groups, those seeking grant funding, small business owners, and the new resident wanting to learn more about their city. The recent release of data from the American Community Survey and the upcoming releases of 2010 Census information make it imperative for anybody working with the public and academic communities to have a solid knowledge of what the Census can do not only for their institution but for their primary patrons as well. This hands-on workshop will focus on helping attendees understand what data are available (and how it has changed over time), navigate the huge amount of Census data freely available from the US Census Bureau and other sites, and learn how to more effectively search key Census resources such as American Factfinder.

ABOUT THE PRESENTERS:

  • Kirsten Clark, Government Information and Regional Depository Librarian, University of Minnesota -Twin Cities
  • Amy West, Data Services Librarian, University of Minnesota -Twin Cities