Why You Need Them

Who Publishes Them

Their Formats

The Information in Them

Tracking Them Down

Printable Checklist

Tracking Down Government Documents: Statistics: Part Two

In addition to all-purpose statistics sites like FedStats and American FactFinder, the federal government maintains specialized databases on specific topics:

• CenStats provides databases of building permits, county business patterns, housing patterns, occupational data, and imports and exports.
   
• Stat-USA provides information on the US economy and international trade.
   
• TradeStats Express provides statistics on national and international trade.

Generally these databases are free. Some, however, require a subscription or charge for access to individual documents.