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U.S. Census and Demographic Information

General guide to understanding and finding demographic data produced by the U.S. Census Bureau

Library Contact

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Catherine Morse
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Contact:
Government Information, Law and Political Science Librarian

Clark Library

Hatcher Graduate Library 2 South
734-936-2333

Census Workshop Slides

Looking for Census Data? Start here

To search by address and identify tract numbers use the Census Geocoder

Census Bureau APIs and FTP

Background Information on Census Topics

Introduction to Census Data

The Decennial Census:

The decennial census is a constitutionally mandated count of the population of the U.S. which is conducted by the government every ten years. The count is used for apportioning Congressional seats, as well as many other purposes, such as demographic research, allocating funding, and informing public policy.

Historical Changes:

The Census has changed greatly over time. Though the first Census in 1790 did little more than count population, over the years it has grown to include many other types of information. Many questions and terminology (e.g. racial categories) have changed over time as well.

The Long Form and the American Community Survey:

Over time Congress became concerned that there were too many questions. In 1940 the Long Form was created as a way of finding out more detailed information (e.g. questions on income and educational attainment) from a sample of the population. The long form of the Census was sent to 1 in 6 households. The 2000 Census was the last time the long form was used. Since 2000, the American Community Survey has replaced the long form. The American Community Survey is an ongoing survey of a sample population that will provide us with detailed and more current information.