The REP has mentioned GISTools freeware developed by Professor Bruce Ralston before but we want to make sure that all our readers know about these programs. Compared to AmericanFactfinder these tools will save you hours of time.

What are they: Professor Ralston developed four programs that allow people to easily obtain Census 2000 data from the SF1-SF4 files for any summary level (i.e. block, tract, city, county, state, etc.)

When do I use them: The REP suggests using these tools if you need Census 2000 data for presentations, research, or mapping. They are particularly helpful if you need data at the block group or block summary level.

How do I use them: These tools are super user-friendly. Step 1: Download the zip files containing the Census 2000 data from the Bureau’s ftp site. Step 2: Download the appropriate “geo” file for your data. There is one geo file for SF1-SF4 files for each state. It’s normally at the very bottom of the folder with the zip files for the summary file. For instance, at the bottom of the folder for California SF1 data there is a file named cageo_uf1.zip. Step 3: Download the tool. There is a different program for each summary file (i.e. 1–4). Step 4: Follow the instructions in the user manual that is available for download from the same site that you got the program from.

Lastly, tell Professor Ralston how wonderful his programs are and keep you fingers crossed that he will provide similar freeware for Census 2010.