To get more relevant search results, limit your search by domain, for example .edu, .org, .gov, .net. Enter your keywords followed by the command site:[domain].
For example, if your topic is the effect of wind turbines on migratory birds, then you might type into the search box:
nursing home length of stay site:gov
Federal agencies with health statistics (online)
- Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) Data SourcesTo improve the quality, safety, efficiency, and effectiveness of health care for all Americans
- Data.Census.GovHousing, population, economic, and geographic data from the Census Bureau. Formerly known as American Factfinder.
- CDC National Center for Health StatisticsCenters for Disease Control and Prevention sponsored site.
- FastStatsQuick access to data from the National Center for Health Statistics
- Health.govPortal for health-related information from the government
- HealthyPeople 2020 DataSearch HP2020 objective data by topic area or data source.
- U. S. Census BureauUse the American Community Survey to look up information on a community. Use the New American FactFinder to find more detailed information.
Federal Sources (print and online)
Statistical Abstract of the United States - access varies (see below)
This useful compendium of statistical information was published by the U. S. Census Bureau from 1878 until 2012, when it ceased. The Census Bureau continues to provide free online access to the data. In 2013 ProQuest, a for-profit publisher, began publishing a commercial print and online version of the Statistical Abstract. Following is a chart by date, showing availability through Andruss Library.
| Years | Location for print | Online link |
| 2013 - present | Ref HA 202 .A385.1 (2nd floor) | ProQuest database |
| 1946 - 2012 |
Ref HA 202 .A385.1 (2nd floor)" |
Census website |
| 1878-1955 | Call number 1429, Microfiche Collection (1st floor) | Census website |
Health statistics at the state and local level (online)
- Center for Rural PennsylvaniaThe Center for Rural Pennsylvania is a bipartisan, bicameral legislative agency that serves as a resource for rural policy within the Pennsylvania General Assembly. PA has nearly 3.5 million rural residents.
- Pennsylvania Health StatisticsLatest available health statistics and data analysis for Pennsylvania. Cover a wide variety of health topics suitable for community health assessments, research, and public inquiry. Maintained by the Division of Health Informatics within the Pennsylvania Department of Health.
- Policy MapProvides free access to a limited amount of data; some data only available by subscription.
State Source (print)
Pennsylvania Abstract - PA DOC PCO 208.20/8:2014
Over 200 tables in the print Abstract contain data for Pennsylvania and its 67 counties. Data for each edition is collected from state and federal agencies as well as other sources. The annual Abstract contains a wealth of data including: population, vital statistics, industrial development, banking, employment, education, social services, taxes, government, crime, infrastructure, and much more. Beginning in 2014, the Abstract includes a user-friendly, topic driven organization for easier table location.
Library receives every year. Latest are on Permanent Reserve (ask at Circulation Desk); earlier editions in PA Docs.
Local or county data sources (online)
- Epidemiologic Query and Mapping Systeminteractive health statistics web tool where you can create customized data tables, charts, maps, and county assessments/profiles for the following datasets: Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS), Births, Cancer Incidence, Communicable Diseases (other than STDs), Deaths, Emergency Medical Services, Infant Deaths, Population, Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs), Teen Pregnancies (Reported)
- Pennsylvania State Data CenterServes as Pennsylvania's official source of population and economic statistics. Acts as Pennsylvania's liaison to the Census Bureau, and the state's representative to the Federal-State Cooperative Programs for Population Estimates and for Population Projections. Housed within the Institute of State and Regional Affairs at Penn State Harrisburg.
Local Sources (print)
Pennsylvania County Data Book Series - PCO 208.4/8/3:no.19/[yr]
The Andruss Library has print only of the Pennsylvania County Data Book for Clinton, Columbia, Lackawanna, Luzerne, Lycoming, Montour, Northumberland, Schuylkill, Snyder, Sullivan, and Union counties. Each contains more than 60 tables with subjects ranging from physical features to income to quality of life. Also included are demographic and housing sections. Most data is at the municipal level, and includes decennial Census results.
Library receives only every other year; owns only odd-numbered years through 2013 and even-numbered years starting in 2014. Latest on Permanent Reserve (ask at Circulation Desk); earlier editions in PA Docs.
