You might be surprised at the business resources that can be found within the Union County Library System. Small business owners and entrepreneurs have access to an often untapped resource that can provide a wealth of information. You will probably want to find that library card or apply for a new one when you finish.
While you may not have even thought of the library since finishing high school or college, they have been a thriving resource over the past decade, providing resources to help small businesses get started and expand.
Entrepreneurs and startup companies are a major factor in the U.S. economy, providing the largest segment of new jobs in the U.S.. These businesses need information compilations including demographics and business planning even though they don’t have the resources that are available to larger companies. This is where the library provides help.
Technology and Space
Working from home offers many advantages, but one of the disadvantages includes a lack of space for meetings. The library conference room resolves that problem. As of November 2022, the Union County Library system has paused rentals of meeting rooms but is planning to bring rentals back at some point.
Computers, printers, fax machines, and scanners are available for use, along with the library’s wireless internet. You can upload items from home, and then retrieve them at the Monroe, Marshville, or Union West library. You also have the option to wirelessly print from the library.
Workshops to Grow your Business
You might find workshops and classes designed to help learn how to best utilize technology, learn graphic skills, or create a business plan. The Union County Library partners with SCORE to offer free Grow with Google Small Business Webinars. These sessions are offered throughout the year, on a variety of topics to help you use analytics to make better business decisions, sell with e-commerce, and maximize the reach of your website.
The library also offers several resources for job seekers. You can schedule an appointment to meet privately with a library staff member skilled in assisting job seekers
Access to Powerful Data
A variety of software and online resources are available at the library that provide businesses with the tools they need to research and obtain data such as demographics, industry analyses, directories, and technical manuals. These free resources help struggling companies find the information they need to succeed.
- » You can access Axle Reference Solutions to help you research businesses and consumer data, and look at historical market trends
- » Gale Legal Forms gives you access to popular legal forms, can help define legal terms for you, and has a list of attorneys who can help with your legal questions.
- » You also have access to Universal Class, where you can find hundreds of courses in computer training, business, accounting, office skills, and so much more.
- » The librarians can also help you access business, consumer and government databases, government databases, statistics, and various trade magazines.
Check out all the ways the library can help you grow your business today!
Last modified: November 3, 2022
