The Impact of Future Social and Technological Trends On the Dissemination of Census Bureau Information

This study examines social and technological trends that may impact the dissemination of U.S. census information via the Depository Library Program in the Year 2000 and beyond. The study looks beyond currently emerging systems to examine a limited list of future issues in technology, regulation, funding, access, and user demand. It examines information dissemination in the broad, societal context, rather than concentrating narrowly upon the means of delivery. Its main objectives are to pinpoint key issues, to stimulate an appreciation of the inextricable nature of information in postindustrial society, and to recommend policies and directions for further research. Introduction Nature of the Topic This study examines social and technological trends that may impact the dissemination of U.S. census information via the Depository Library Program in the Year 2000 and beyond. Importance of the Topic Establishing the social and technological context within which census information might be disseminated in the future would facilitate rational policy making regarding that dissemination. It also might save time and money, in that decisions about systems with long lead times could be made so as to implement the systems in a timely and efficient manner. Scope and Objectives The original impetus for the study was a concern about the sheer volume of paper products absorbed by the Depository Library I*rogram (as high as 25 percent of all documents printed from the 1980 census), and an interest in how new technologies may make it possible to reduce costs while increasing the availabihty and variety of data (in particular, census data). The study looks beyond currently emerging systems to examine a limited list of future issues in technology, regulation, funding, access, and user demand. It examines information dissemination in the broad, societal context, rather than concentrating narrowly upon the means of delivery. Its main objectives are to pinpoint key issues, to stimulate an appreciation of the inextricable nature of information in postindustrial society, and to recommend pohcies and directions for further re-