Skip to main content
College of the Atlantic - Thorndike Library

Ask a Librarian

Off-campus Access

Like us on Facebook

2020 Census

What is the Census?

The United States Constitution requires a count every 10 years of every person who is residing in the U.S., regardless of immigration status or citizenship. The Census Bureau’s goal for the 2020 Census is to “count everyone once, only once, and in the right place.”

Why does it Matter?

  • Census data are used to make decisions about how and where to spend more than $1.5 trillion each year for programs and services that communities rely on (things like schools, libraries, parks, and the fire department). 
  • The census population count is used to determine representation in Congress (known as reapportionment) and the Electoral College. 

In essence, communities that are undercounted are at a disadvantage economically and politically.

Response Needed

This is the 1st year the Census can be completed online! 

At the end of April, if your residence has not responded by one of the three methods, your home may receive a visit from a census enumerator (someone who helps residents fill the form out in person!). 

Where am I counted?

Subjects: 2020 Census