In recent years, new and powerful legal tools have been forged to get information on social problems into the hands of the public. Yet many people who would put the information to work know little or nothing about the tools for getting it. This book attempts to draw together available information about getting and using public data. It is keyed to the needs of both the social activist and his lawyer. Part 1: How to get the information is primarily for the social activist and researcher, offering fairly simple, practical advice about gathering information. Part 2: How to use the information offers some practical illustrations from cases in the major controversial fields of education, employment, and transportation. Part 3: Source materials on information laws provides references to all major statutes. The full text of the federal act is included. After reading this book citizens should consult public interest law firms, neighborhood legal services, and civil liberties lawyers regarding what can be done under the law in these areas. (Author/NH)