Mary Abdoney
Data from Government Sources -- Starting Places
- Statistical Abstract of the United States This link opens in a new windowProbably the single most useful published collection of statistical information on virtually all aspects of life in the United States. And it usually directs you to the originally-published sources of data for more in-depth coverage.
Earlier editions also are available online from the Census Bureau. Printed copies (1878-2011) are available in the library's Reference collection. - ProQuest Statistical Insight This link opens in a new window
Contains references to tens of thousands of data sources from the U.S. Federal Government, U.S. state governments, international intergovernmental organizations, and private sector groups, such as trade and professional associations.
U.S. Federal Government -- Major Sources for Business and Economic Information
Each of these agency sites is comprised of a large number of subject-themed sections, as well as search options. Researchers really need to spend time exploring a site to find out what's possible. (And there are other Federal statistical agencies.)
- U.S. Census BureauPreeminent source of free data in several areas -- population, business and economics, income and poverty, housing, voting registration, and much more. Good starting points include the "Browse by Topic" and "Explore Data" tabs.
- U.S. Bureau of Economic AnalysisMassive collection of data on the national economy, regional economies, industries, and international economic relations.
- U.S. Federal ReserveMostly banking data, but much more. See the
- U.S. Bureau of Labor StatisticsAgency maintains data on "labor market activity, working conditions, and price changes in the economy." Maybe start with the Subjects tab.
- U.S. Energy Information AdministrationBranch of Department of Energy supplies data on ""energy production, stocks, demand, imports, exports, and prices..." All three tabs at the top of the page -- Sources & Uses, Topics, and Geography -- are very useful entry points.