Providing access to the 1990 U.S. census maps

Area of Science:

• Demographic studies
• Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
• Library science

Background:

• The U.S. Census Bureau provides data at granular geographic levels on CD-ROM.
• Accessing these detailed geographic reporting areas, particularly within counties, is crucial for many research needs.
• Specific census files (STF1A, STF1B, STF3A) contain unique mapping information vital for spatial analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To illustrate how U.S. Census Bureau reporting levels are defined in Tract/BNA Maps and Block Maps.
• To describe the practical steps a library can take to link patron geographic interests with available census map data.
• To demonstrate a method for enhancing access to small-area census geographic information.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing U.S. Census Bureau CD-ROM data, specifically STF1A, STF1B, and STF3A files.
• Examining and explaining the definitions within Tract/BNA Maps and Block Maps.
• Implementing library-based strategies for map preservation, housing, and accessibility.
• Developing a database index using dBASE software for map information.
• Extracting and organizing data from STF1A using Extract software to create a searchable index.

Main Results:

• A clear illustration of how census reporting areas are geographically defined.
• A practical, step-by-step guide for libraries to create a bridge between user needs and census geographic data.
• A functional index created using dBASE, linking map information to specific census data.
• Improved library service by making detailed geographic census data more accessible to patrons.

Conclusions:

• Libraries can uniquely enhance access to detailed U.S. Census Bureau geographic data.
• Strategic map management and indexing are key to unlocking the value of census spatial information.
• The described methods provide a replicable model for other libraries to improve demographic and geographic data services.