Google Tips
As more data and statistics are published to the open web, it helps to know who produces data so you can direct your search accordingly. If you know the URL of an organization that produces statistics, you can search their site alone using google by adding site: followed by the domain of their site to your search terms:
degrees awarded site:nsf.gov
Or you can limit to excel or csv files by adding filetype:xls to your search.
degrees awarded site:nsf.gov filetype:xls
- Sourcebook of Criminal Justice Statistics - BJS
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- NCES Digest of Education Statistics This link opens in a new window
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(Searches through citations and the full text)
Compilation of U.S. statistical information from public and private sources, covering pre-K through higher ed.
Statistics and Data - Start Looking Here
These are just a few of many possibilities. Talk to a librarian for more!
- Social Explorer This link opens in a new window
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A really helpful interface for finding current and historical Census data. - Statistical Abstract of the United States This link opens in a new window
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(Searches through citations and the full text)
A comprehensive summary of statistics on the social, political, and economic organization of the United States. Covers 1878 - present. - iPoll Databank This link opens in a new window
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An incredibly rich collection of public opinion statistics, both current and historical. - ProQuest Statistical Insight This link opens in a new window
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An index to sources of statistics and data -- a great way to discover who (or what agencies) are publishing data on a topic.
- General Social Survey
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One of the longest running public surveys, find measures of attitudes about class structure, economic equality, internet use, and more. Talk to Kristin about how to use this interface. To see an example, enter fill out the following search boxes like this: Row:FEAR, Column:SEX, Selection:YEAR(2010). This will compare how men and women answered the question of whether they felt afraid to walk at night in their neighborhoods.
Government Agency Web Sites
- CDC Data and Statistics
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Centers for Disease Control - Data and Statistics by Topic
- data.census.gov This link opens in a new window
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Statistical population, housing, economic, and geographic data from the United States Census. Replaces American FactFinder.
- BLS: Bureau of Labor Statistics
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The BLS is the agency of the U.S. government that produces data on employment, unemployment, price indices, productivity, pay and benefits, and time use. - NCHS: National Center for Health Statistics
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A division of the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) the NCHS is the principle health statistics agency of the U.S. Government. This agency's web site offers access to macro- and microdata, including such surveys and collection systems as the National Health Care Survey, National Health Interview Survey, National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, National Immunization Survey, and the National Vital Statistics System.
Research Organizations & Policy Centers
- Institute for Research on Race and Public PolicyAn example of a policy research organization associated with an educational institution. These offer research and reports, and sometimes feature data sections and research guides.
- BrookingsThis nonpartisan research institute publishes highly useful policy briefs and reports on international affairs.
- The Urban InstituteThis is a research institution focused on public policy with data and dissemination as part of its mission.
Subject Guide
Social Science Librarian
Contact:
4th Libe - Room 466
Contact reference@carleton.edu
Contact reference@carleton.edu
Subjects: Statistics
