The Pella Public Library invites all in the area to attend “Making Sense of the U.S. Census.” The presentation will be held on Thursday, March 26 at 7 p.m. The 2020 Census is in progress, and Professors Anya Butt and Al Hibbard from Central College will talk about the process for the current 2020 Census, as well as why the Census is carried out every 10 years.

Kelly Campbell with the Census in Iowa says the data is important for making congressional maps, and determining representation for states, but it also helps determine federal funding for many projects such as roads, education, emergency services and others.

The presenters at the Pella Library will share their passion for the data that is generated by the Census. Dr. Anya Butt and her students use newer census data in the area of GIS (Geographical Information Systems) and it is also used by sociologists, political scientists, and many more. Dr. Hibbard will focus on the use of “older” census data and how it is used frequently used by historians and genealogists. They will share how anyone can access the data for their own use.

This program will take place on Thursday, March 26th at 7 p.m. in the Meeting Room of the Pella Public Library at 603 Main St. and is free and open to the public. All ages are welcome.