Data & Statistics: Find Data

Think about the source

Finding data and statistics can be tricky! One helpful step when searching is to consider who would collect and report this data, or who would have access to the information. Basically, focus on the source instead of the specific data. The most common sources for data are:

• Government agencies
• Private companies
• Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
• Researchers

Subject guides

The first place to check for data related to a particular subject area is with your subject librarian. You can check a subject guide, which may have a "data" or "statistics" tab. If you're not finding what you're seeking, each subject guide has contact information for your subject librarian and please feel free to contact them directly.

Tri-campus resources

The Center for Social Science Computation and Research (CSSCR) is a great Seattle campus resource for finding data. The CSSCR is a computer resource center located in Savery 110, providing facilities and support for social science departments at the UW.

The Center for Studies in Demography and Ecology (CSDE) provides data management services to faculty affiliates and students conducting research involving surveys or census data. The also regularly host seminars and workshops.