Aligning with current difficult economic times, this book helps libraries assist users entering or already involved in the small business community

A timely reference for all public librarians who serve the business community in libraries, regardless of size or location—from small rural outposts to bustling big-city branches. Serving communities today entails serving businesses—in particular, local businesses, entrepreneurs, and those looking to become entrepreneurs. Understandably, many librarians are not prepared for this role, and as a result feel uncomfortable in it. Supporting Local Businesses and Entrepreneurs in the Digital Age: The Public Librarian's Toolkit explains how librarians and libraries can better serve the business community, offering specific guidance on everything from information resources—including books, databases, and free online sites—to programming, special events, marketing, and outreach. Readers will gain insight into key topics ranging from embedded business librarianship, virtual business librarianship, and government documents to seminars, one-on-one appointments, and trade shows. Providing invaluable guidance based on the authors' real-world experience and research as well as interviews with librarians in all sizes of libraries around the country, this book offers practical, actionable advice and proven best practices for serving local business owners and entrepreneurs.

The more libraries can prove that they benefit the business community, the more funding they are likely to receive. Helping Business is designed to guide the public library administrator through the process of assessing their community's need for economic development assistance and carrying out a plan that works. The manual first addresses how to learn about local business' needs through such sources as focus groups, the chamber of commerce and the reference desk. Also covered are techniques to get more involved in the process of helping business; staff training, print and electronic sources for information; developing the support of other agencies; marketing through the press, newsletters, networking and meetings; and assessing and publicising results. An appendix dealing with organising focus groups rounds out this comprehensive guide.

Loaded with recommended practices for increasing engagement and developing courses and programs for business owners, professionals, and job seekers in the community, this book points the way towards making the library an integral part of the business community in ways that are realistic and sustainable.