Community Development

Canada Commons is a library database containing government, organization, advocacy groups, university research centres, and think-tank publications, policy documents and reports on a wide variety of topics and issues. It also includes a 4150 directory of Canadian research and government organizations.

Search Canada Commons 

What are government publications?

Government publications are normally found on the website of a specific department of the Government. When possible perform the search on the department's website. Some departments have their own searchable catalogues while other departments may just have a list of current publications. Methods of searching for Canadian Government Documents can include: 

• Searching by Government Agency or Department
• Government of Canada Publications Search

Or, try using a Google Advanced Search. 

• Search your topic with the appropriate keywords [ie: refugees and housing]
• Limit your search to the site domain: .gc.ca
• Note: You may also want to narrow your date to publications from the last few years.

What is a social service agency?

• Social service agencies serve specific populations of people within the social service sector.
• Generate and publish reports based on their specific service and sector. 

How to find social service agency publications

• Find a social service agency and look for a an area on their website named "Resources," "Publications", or "Reports"
• Browse for annual reports as well as brochures, newsletters, etc. 
• Read mission / vision statements to learn about the agency

Directories: 

• Use Toronto 211 to find relevant Toronto agencies
• Use Ontario 211  to find relevant Ontario agencies.