3 Ways the Public Library Helps Entrepreneurs

By: The Seattle Public Library

Whether you are exploring a new business idea or are trying to grow an existing small business, your public library can be an important ally in helping you create a viable plan. The Seattle Public Library (SPL), King County Library System (KCLS), and Pierce County Library System (PCLS) offer access to an extensive selection of free resources for entrepreneurs at any stage.

Here are three great ways you can take advantage of your public library:

1: Conduct Market and Industry Research

Business databases accessible through your library’s website can help you locate valuable research and data that is not available on the open web. With your library card, you can access these tools 24/7 without having to visit the library. You’ll find:

Information about other companies:
Enhanced business directories will help you identify competitors, prospects, suppliers or partners, and they are searchable by type of business and geography. These directories also include detailed information for private companies that can be difficult to find elsewhere, like estimates on revenue and number of employees. Look for: ReferenceUSA (SPL, KCLS) and Mergent Intellect (PCLS, KCLS)

Information about consumers:
Demographics databases are useful for choosing a business location, locating target customers, and sizing your market. These tools go beyond basic census data and dive deeper into consumer spending and psychographics. Look for: DemographicsNow (SPL, PCLS) and Social Explorer (KCLS)

Information about your industry:
Industry reports available through business databases will include your industry’s trends, opportunities, challenges, regional highlights, financial benchmarks, and more. Look for: ABI/Inform Trade and Industry (SPL, KCLS) and Business Source Complete (PCLS)

2: Build Your Technology and Business Skills

Web classes:
Brush up on business and tech skills with online courses you can take at home, at any time, and on your own schedule. Classes range from beginner to advanced level, and include a wide range of courses like social media marketing and Microsoft Access. Look for: lynda.com (SPL, PCLS, KCLS), Microsoft Imagine Academy (all libraries)

Books & eBooks:
Library collections include up-to-date guides on starting a business, writing a business plan, marketing, business tech skills, and more – available in print or as eBooks. Look for: Safari Tech Books (SPL) for its vast collection of up-to-date tech and business eBooks that are always available.

Library events:
Attend free library workshops and events to get expert advice and ask your own questions on topics like marketing, operations, funding, opening a food business, and more. Meet representatives of local agencies at library-hosted open houses. Check your library’s calendar to find out what’s happening soon!

3: Get Research Help

Locating the best business resources for your needs and then learning how to use them can be time consuming and frustrating. Librarians are available to make this process a little less painful! All libraries can help in person, over the phone, and by email; Seattle Public Library also offers one-on-one business research appointments.