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URST 425: Public Resources Management & Analysis (Henry): Library Guides

Resources to assist students with upcoming research projects.

Thinking Critically about Information Sources

Evaluate Information Online like a Fact-Checker

In four short videos, Michael Caulfield shares tips for evaluating information online like a fact-checker (first video).  The basic strategy is to use the Web to find out more about the source in question.  Caulfield calls his method "The Four Moves" or "SIFT."

CRAAP Test Resources

Newspaper Databases

Library Databases

Think Tanks and Lobby Organizations

The websites of think tanks, professional associations and lobby organizations can be an excellent source of in-depth research reports and statistical data.  Just remember to be aware of the political bent of the organization as you consider the information they provide.

Below are some you may want to consider:

Google Scholar

A note about Google Scholar . . . 

You may want to check out  Google Scholar for scholarly/peer-reviewed articles focusing on government budgets.

For help connecting to UNLV Libraries' resources through Google Scholar see the following.

Government Sources

It is generally fairly easy to find official federal, state, county, and city government information on Google, including budget-related information. After typing in your keywords, then type in site:.gov. 
 

You may also want to limit by time period (such as the last 3-5 years)


For example:
Nevada Department of Education budget site:.gov
Medicare budget site:.gov

Congressional Research Service (CRS)

"The Congressional Research Service (CRS) works exclusively for the United States Congress, providing policy and legal analysis to committees and Members of both the House and Senate, regardless of party affiliation. As a legislative branch agency within the Library of Congress, CRS has been a valued and respected resource on Capitol Hill for more than a century.

CRS is well-known for analysis that is authoritative, confidential, objective and nonpartisan. Its highest priority is to ensure that Congress has 24/7 access to the nation’s best thinking." (Library of Congress, Congressional Research Service)

Investigating Government Budgets

  • Official Government Websites: Most government agencies have a dedicated section on their official websites where they publish budgetary information. Look for departments like finance, treasury, or budget.
  • Treasury or Finance Departments: The treasury or finance department of a government is a primary source for budgetary information. They often provide detailed budget documents, reports, and financial statements.
  • Budget Office: Some governments have a specific office responsible for budgeting and financial management. This office is likely to provide comprehensive details about the budget, including allocations and expenditures.
  • Legislative Bodies: In many countries, the budget needs approval from the legislative body. As a result, the budget documents are often available on the websites of parliamentary or congressional bodies.
  • Open Data Platforms: Some governments provide budget data through open data platforms, making it easily accessible for the public. These platforms may offer data sets, visualizations, and other tools for exploring budget information.
  • Publications and Reports: Governments often publish annual reports, economic reviews, and financial statements that include budgetary information. These documents can be found on official government websites or through government publications.
  • Financial Transparency Portals: Some governments have established online portals dedicated to financial transparency. These portals may include interactive tools, visualizations, and downloadable datasets related to government budgets.

Urban Affairs Librarian

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Susie Skarl, Urban Affairs Librarian
Contact:
UNLV Libraries
Lied Library
4505 S. Maryland Parkway
Box 457014
Las Vegas, NV 89154-7014
susie.skarl@unlv.edu
702-895-2141
© University of Nevada Las Vegas