From Library Journal
Drawing on recent data from reliable sources such as the Census Bureau, other federal agencies, state government, and nonprofit and private organizations, two interesting publications with similar content, scope, and arrangement supply up-to-date comparative statistics and state rankings on a diverse range of social, economic, and cultural subjects from transportation to agriculture, crime to environment, and finance to health. Arranged alphabetically, these easy-to-use works have similar categories but emphasize different information, rankings, and sources of data for each one-page table. State names are spelled out and whole numbers given. CQ's State Fact Finder's 325 tables provide specific statistics such as state expenditures, per capita spending, and tax and crime rates with national totals and averages included. The raw data are converted into percentages, rates, or per capita amounts before ranking to compensate for differences in size and population. Moreover, a state profile section summarizing each state's ranking for all indicators allows the reader to locate quickly a state's standing in all 325 categories. However, the more comprehensive State Rankings, 1993 compares and ranks the 50 states in 511 clear tables in 15 areas. The opening pages supply a liveability ranking and state fast facts including the state's nickname, capital, population, area, date admitted to the union, song, flower, tree, and bird--a unique feature useful for ready reference. With table headings and text in large, clear, boldface type, every other line shaded in gray, chapter break pages clearly marked with tabs, and national figures at the top of each table, plus a chapter index inside the back cover, the data are easier to read and access. Finally, there is a roster of sources, with addresses and telephone numbers. Written for the general reader, businessperson, policymaker, and researcher, both references are treasuries of information. While both are highly recommended for most libraries, State Rankings, 1993 cannot be outdone for convenience, coherence, and ease of use.
- Marilyn Rosenthal, Nassau Community Coll. Lib., Garden City, N.Y.
Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.
- Marilyn Rosenthal, Nassau Community Coll. Lib., Garden City, N.Y.
Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.
