Right now in Austin Texas there is an "Access to Justice Conference" going on. What is that you might ask? To make a long story short, it is about how public libraries are great places for citizens to receive legal information. There is an obvious connection to e-government. Questions asked such as: how do I file for a divorce; what if I have a dispute with my landlord?; how do I write a will? are common occurrences in libraries.

One place to get started is a website: www.floridalawhelp.org

You can search for your local information on this site as well.

Stay tuned...more about legal information coming soon.

Why should I fill out the census form?
Every ten years the government gathers informaiton from American residents through the census. This information helps the government and other agencies in a variety of ways. It determines the number of U.S. House Representatives that each state has. Many organizations like hospitals, job centers, and schools use this information to apply for funds to provide services to area residents. Also you are required to complete the form by law.


Can I fill out the Census form online?
Not yet, for more information go to http://2010.census.gov/2010census/how/interactive-form.php

How will I receive the census form?
In March of 2010, census forms will be delivered to every residence in the United States and Puerto Rico. When you receive yours, just answer the 10 short questions and then mail the form back in the postage-paid envelope provided. If you don't mail the form back, you may receive a visit from a census taker, who will ask you the questions from the form.


How do I know the person at my door is a real census worker? 
The Better Business Bureau offers this advice:
If a U.S. Census worker knocks on your door, they will have a badge, a handheld device, a Census Bureau canvas bag and a confidentiality notice. Ask to see their identification and their badge before answering their questions.  However, you should never invite anyone you don’t know into your home.

• Census workers are currently only knocking on doors to verify address information. Do not give your Social Security number, credit card or banking information to anyone, even if they claim they need it for the U.S. Census.  While the Census Bureau might ask for basic financial information, such as a salary range, it will not ask for Social Security, bank account or credit card numbers nor will employees solicit donations.

• Eventually, Census workers may contact you by telephone, mail or in person at home.  However, they will not contact you by e-mail, so be on the look out for e-mail scams impersonating the Census. Never click on a link or open any attachments in an e-mail that are supposedly from the U.S. Census Bureau.


What about my privacy?
All Census Bureau employees take the oath of nondisclosure and are sworn for life to protect the confidentiality of the data.  For more details- http://2010.census.gov/2010census/privacy/index.php


Remember you can pick up a census form and get more information at any of the Pasco County Library branches.