How to Find Statistical Data: A Pathfinder

Statistical data is a compilation of numerical data and facts that are classified, interpreted and analyzed. This guide was designed to assist the researcher locate STATISTICAL DATA resources available in CARL and on the Internet. This is not a comprehensive listing of sources, but is intended to be a starting point from which a student can begin their research according to specific needs.

U.S. DEMOGRAPHICS AND SOCIAL DATA

Summaries and statistical tables on population profiles, business/economics, health, education, and crime in the United States can be found in the following publications. Most publications arrange the data by broad topics within their subject area and include an alphabetized index.

• Statistical Abstract of the United States - Ref. 317.3 U56s
• Digest of Education Statistics - Ref. 370.21 D572
• County and City Data Book - Ref. 317.3 C 855
• Historical Statistics of the United States: Colonial Times to 1970 - Ref. 317.3 U56hi

MILITARY STATISTICS

Statistical data relating to military manpower and arms/equipment can be found in the following titles. Most publications arrange their data by countries

• Military Balance - Ref. 355.033205 M644
• SIPRI Yearbook of World Armaments and Disarmament - Ref. 341.6705 I61s
• Annual Report to the President and Congress (DOD) - Ref. 353.60973 U565rs
• Defense (Almanac Issue) - Reference Desk

INTERNATIONAL STATISTICS

Demographics and quantitative summary statistics on agriculture, mortality rates, economics, and education throughout the world. Most publications arrange their data by country.

• Europa World Yearbook - Ref. 341.184 E87
• Demographic Yearbook - Ref. 312.058 K383
• The Statesman’s Yearbook - Ref. 320.9 S797
• Statistical Abstract of the World - Ref. 310.5 S7972
• Statistical Yearbook / Annuaire Statistique - Ref. 310.5 S797

INTERNET

• FedStats - The gateway to statistics from over 100 U.S. Federal agencies.
• US Census Bureau - The gateway to the 2000 Census, American Factfinder, and other information.
• State and Local - Gateway to state and local governments on the web.
• Bureau of Justice Statistics - Statistics on crime and victims; criminal offenders; law enforcement;  and more. 
• Bureau of Labor Statistics - Statistics for wage, earnings and benefits; employment and unemployment; productivity; and more. 

ASK AT THE REFERENCE DESK FOR FURTHER ASSISTANCE

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