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Census Records
As is often the case in family history research, you'll find it easiest to step backwards through time when researching one or more family members in the census. Since Federal privacy laws restrict the U.S. Census from being viewed for 72 years after the original census date, the 1930 Census is the most recent U.S. Census available for research. The 1940 Census schedules won't be released for public inspection until April 2012, so you've got plenty of time to become a census expert.
Getting Started
To begin, have an individual or family group in mind. It's always tempting to simply jump right in and start searching — especially when using the Internet. Careful planning, however, can save you hours of wasted effort. When preparing to conduct a search in the census, you should arm yourself with as much data as possible for the person or family you will be searching for.
- What was the real name of your ancestor? ("Uncle Joe" might have been Patrick Lynch)
- What was the maiden name of your female ancestor?
- What were the names of siblings who may have been living with your ancestor?
- Where might you expect to find this family or individual living in 1930?
- Approximately how old would this person (or persons) be in 1930?
Once you have some of this basic information, you'll be ready to begin. The procedure for conducting your search is basically the same online or offline, the big difference being the time required to obtain results using microfilm vs. the Internet. Keep in mind, many libraries, regional archives, and family history centers have online access to the U.S. Census, so even if you don't have a subscription of your own, you can benefit from understanding how to best use your time conducting research.
Quick Links to some Popular Census Pages include:
 Details for using the U.S. Federal Census
U.S. State Census information and resource links
Canadian Census, where you can find resources online and offline
An explaination of the Irish Census
Using English Census records online
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