Tag Archives: maps

Are you interested in working with statistical data and geographical imaging systems?  SimplyMap can be a great resource to learn how to work with demographic data or to prepare maps and data tables for a research paper.

Although working with statistical data can be intimidating, SimplyMap has a great built-in tutorial wizard to help you.  Begin by browsing your options on the “I want to…” dropdown menu on the left, where you can choose to plot a map, compare statistical variables in a table, create a demographic analysis of an area, and more.  No matter which option you choose, the wizard walks you through every step using pop-up instructional boxes.

All statistics are provided by the U.S. Census Bureau and can be broken down by state, county, zip code, census tract, or block group.  There is a rich set of data to draw from, covering topics to satisfy any curiosity.  You could plot a map showing average household size of different neighborhoods in Chicago, or create a table showing which state spent the most money on hair care products in 2010!  Best of all, SimplyMap keeps all of your maps and tables open in separate tabs for easy back-and-forth comparison and allows you to export materials as PDF or GIF images, either as files or as emails.

To access SimplyMap, go to the NC LIVE homepage at www.nclive.org.  Under the category “Data & Demographics,” click the SimplyMap link (you will be prompted to enter your library card number outside of the library).  To begin using SimplyMap, create an account with your email address and password.  You may also log in as a guest, though you will not be able to save your work this way.  If you need help, don’t hesitate to ask a reference librarian to assist you.