About
AccessNorthwest was a research, education and outreach initiative founded by Dr. Susan Dente Ross at Washington State University. With the participation of Dr. David Cuillier and others, AccessNorthwest helped increase citizen access to and use of government information, particularly by disenfranchised populations, with the objective of enhancing civic engagement and building a more informed electorate for a stronger democracy.
AccessNorthwest Original Reports
National poll finds increased support for access among citizens
A national survey of 403 Americans finds broad and increasing support for open government. March 2006.
Banned-book study: Sex, profanity and religion common reasons in book challenges
A survey of 185 school districts in Washington state examines book challenges during the previous two years. February 2005.
Study finds that access to court records varies by county in Washington state
A survey of county clerks in Washington state finds that court record dissemination policies vary widely county to county, including photocopy fees and online access. October 2004.
Finding out campus crime information difficult, Northwest records access audit finds
Access audit reveals that prospective college students and their parents might have difficulty gathering accurate information about crime at 20 public universities in five states. June 2004.
History of banned books in the United States and Pacific Northwest
A summary of major developments in the banning of books through history, including some cases in teh Pacific Northwest. August 2004.
"Spirit of (2)76": The history and intent of the Washington Public Disclosure Act (Initiative 276)
This report provides an insight into the thinking behind Initiative 276, which was considered the toughest state access law in the nation when voters approved it in 1972. The historical sketch includes photographs of organizers and links to related sites. August 2004.
Online links to free public information regarding sex offenders in Northwest states
Washington state joined other states in making sex offender information available online for the public. We post links to the Northwest states' official online sex offender registries. March 2004.
Annotated bibliography of access books, articles and publications
Lists of books, articles and other publications about access, provided with a brief description of each publication. Also include links and lists from other recognized sources. February 2004.
AccessNorthwest public opinion survey about access in Washington state
A 2002 survey of Washington state residents by AccessNorthwest found that people support access to public records but are concerned about identity theft, and the proliferation of personal information on the Internet. Released February 2003.
State Online Access Resources
Descriptions and links to access organizations, laws, government resources, guides for journalists and citizens, and other helpful resources available online.
AK, ID, MT, OR, WA, and National Resources
