Data Library
Data Library helps you discover and understand Carbon Arc datasets.
What It Does
Use Data Library to explore what data exists, where it comes from, how often it updates, what fields are available, and how it is delivered.
It is a discovery and metadata tool, not an analysis tool. This is a discovery tool and does not consume MCP tokens.
What You Get Back
Browse or Search
Returns dataset summaries including:
- Dataset name
- Description
- Refresh frequency
- Historical coverage
- Ecosystem/category
Dataset Details
Returns full TearSheet information including:
- Provider
- Delivery method
- Coverage and panel information
- Geography
- Data lag
- Data dictionary
- Refresh details
- Additional metadata
Best Use Cases
- Discover datasets on a topic
- Understand data provenance
- Review available fields and definitions
- Compare datasets before purchase or analysis
- Browse the full Carbon Arc catalog
Example Questions
- What datasets cover card spend?
- What fields are available in this dataset?
- Where does this data come from?
- How frequently is this dataset refreshed?
Recommended Workflow
1. Search
Search by topic or browse available datasets.
Examples:
- "credit card spend"
- "consumer transactions"
- "retail foot traffic"
2. Review Results
Identify the dataset that best matches your use case.
3. Open the TearSheet
Use the dataset ID or TearSheet name to retrieve full metadata and documentation.
When Not to Use It
| Use Instead | If You Need |
|---|---|
| Search Insights | Metrics and KPIs |
| Search Docs | Product documentation and workflows |
| Framework / Insight Tools | Analytical results, trends, or data outputs |
Quick Rule
Data Library = What data exists?
Search Insights = What can I measure?
Search Docs = How does the platform work?
Tips
- Search first, then open the TearSheet
- Use dataset metadata to evaluate fitness for purpose
- Pair with Search Insights to understand available measurements
- Pair with Search Docs to understand platform workflows
Rate Limits
data_library has a lower-volume rate limit than most discovery tools.
| Per Minute | Per Hour |
|---|---|
| 5 | 30 |
See MCP Tools rate limits for how these limits work.