Subject Specialist Librarian
Resources for conducting interviews as oral history
- The Smithsonian Folklife and Oral History Interviewing GuideExcellent how-to guide for using interviews to capture oral histories
Data Visualization Tools
- data BasicDataBasic is a suite of easy-to-use web tools for beginners that introduce concepts of working with data. These simple tools make it easy to work with data in fun ways, so you can learn how to find great stories to tell.
- 38 Best Tools for Data VisualizationThese are NOT all free, but many have free options with limitations.
- Free and Open Source Data Visualization ToolsNot all are completely free, and many have limited functionality for free option, but a list worth exploring.
- Google Chart ToolsFor more sophisticated users, how-to's for creating APIs for all kinds of Google Charts and maps.
Detroit Demographics & Statistical Info
- data.census.govTo use the decennial census and the American Community Survey (select Tables)
- Data Driven DetroitAn affiliated program of the Michigan Nonprofit Association, D3 offers "a comprehensive data system that includes current and historic demographic, socioeconomic, educational, environmental, and other indicators."
- DETROITography.comA dynamic collection of maps created by a variety of sources about Detroit.
- Detroit Open DataDrill down to current data on property, parcels, demolitions, park improvements and more.
- Detroit Properties Map (Loveland)Locate property, tax distress, foreclosure auctions, future city land use, building age, demolitions, federally owned land. You will need to create a free account to access the data. Some data will not be available to view or download for free accounts. Please contact Veronica Bielat, your Subject Specialist Librarian, if you need assistance with this resource. veronica.bielat@wayne.edu
- Digital Sanborn Maps This link opens in a new windowDigital Sanborn Maps, 1867-1970. Michigan Only. The Sanborn Map Company was the primary American publisher of fire maps for over 100 years, repeatedly mapping towns and cities as they changed. The maps provide a wealth of information, such as building outline, size and shape, construction materials, height, building use, windows and doors, street and sidewalk widths, boundaries, house numbers, and more for cities mapped in the state of Michigan.
- Good Neighborhoods InitiativeA demographic and community asset profile prepared by City Connect Detroit in May 2006 for the following neighborhoods: Brightmoor, Chadsey/Condon, Cody/Rouge, Northend, Osborn, and Southwest.
- Alex B. HillThe author of "Detroit in 50 Maps", Alex Hills is a self-described "data nerd and anthropologist", Their site provides links to lots of resources related to data and social issues in Detroit.
- Homeless Action Network of Detroit (HAND)HAND is a resource in Detroit working for solutions to the problem of homelessness and advocating on behalf of those who are homeless. Use the resources link to find reports and data.
- The NeighborhoodsDouble-click on a neighborhood name to access their informational webpage (not available for all neighborhoods).
- SEMCOG (Southeast Michigan Council of Governments)SEMCOG is a membership organization of local governments in the greater Detroit area. They work with local elected leaders to help solve regional issues that extend beyond individual governmental boundaries.
- Social Explorer This link opens in a new windowThis resource is made possible through the partnership of the Center for Urban Studies and the University Library System. Use Social Explorer to visualize and interact with data, create maps, charts, reports and downloads that help you reach your goals. Explore hundreds of thousands of built-in data indicators related to demography, economy, health, politics, environment, crime and more. Easily add your own data for further impact.
- Statistical Atlas (Cedar Lake Ventures, Inc.)Geographic and graphical visualization of data from the 2010 U.S. Census and the 2009-2013 American Community Survey. Explore Detroit Neighborhoods and Zip Codes. More information about the statistics at About.
Walter P. Reuther Library of Labor and Urban Affairs
Walter P. Reuther Library, Archives of Labor and Urban Affairs
The Walter P. Reuther Library Archives of Labor and Urban Affairs, located on the campus of Wayne State University in Detroit, contains millions of primary source documents related to the history of the labor movement, urban affairs, and the Wayne State University Archives. The building is named for UAW President and Congress of Industrial Organizations (CIO) President Walter Reuther.
Reading Room Hours:
Monday-Friday: 9:30:am-noon; 1-3:30pm
Saturday-Sunday: Closed
5401 Cass Avenue, Detroit, MI
Appointments: Reference Archivist
