The library has fantastic resources, and I’m not just saying that because I work here. Sometimes, though, it can be difficult for a person to pinpoint how our breadth of resources, beyond the books, can help them with a specific question or research need. We provide help in multiple ways, including tech classes, topical resource guides and research appointments, plus casual drop-in questions at our service desks or at a program. Recently, I had the opportunity to present a focused look at how business owners, or those thinking about starting a business, can use our resources. Here’s the short version of that discussion.
To start, you can find a full A-Z list of our databases here and a Job Skills & Careers Resource Guide here. Among the databases you’ll find Reference Solutions, which can be accessed freely within the library on our computers or when you are connected to our network. From home, you can access it with any New Jersey library card through JerseyClicks. You’ll find multiple collections to work with, including U.S. Businesses; using the advanced search function, you can build a targeted list of companies based on industry, location, size, sales volume and more criteria to determine the market saturation in a certain area (if you want to open a business) or to develop lists of potential partners or business-to-business clients. Other collections that can be used in tandem are U.S Consumers/Lifestyles and U.S. New Movers/Homeowners for market research; the advanced search options there can help you to develop or expand mailing lists by identifying consumer location, income, lifestyle interests and more.
I definitely want to highlight LinkedIn Learning, which always requires a Princeton Public Library card to access. This database gives you access to an astounding range of classes on pretty much any subject. There’s no limit on how much you can use it, so you can easily try anything that catches your eye. Explore topics like ecommerce, marketing, AI, finance, cybersecurity, business leadership, employee relations, and more. Courses are available for beginners through advanced users, so you can start at the level that’s right for you.
Two databases that have some overlap but are both worth exploring are Legal Information Source and Small Business Source, both of which can be used freely inside the library. From home, you can access them with your PPL card from here or with other New Jersey library cards through JerseyClicks. Both databases contain full-text Nolo legal guides on a wide range of subjects for both business and personal use. Among other offerings, Legal Information Source includes copies of legal forms while Small Business Source includes targeted resources like a start-up kit.
You can keep up to date and save on subscriptions through our magazine and newspaper offerings. In addition to those available in print, PPL cardholders can access codes to read The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal from home. The New York Times, The Economist and a range of national and international newspapers are available via PressReader, which can be accessed freely inside the library or from home with a PPL card. Your card also gives you access to unlimited magazine checkouts in Libby, plus our collection of ebooks and downloadable audiobooks. Business owners may also want to visit two databases that focus on business news: Business Source Elite and Regional Business News, both of which can be used freely inside the library. From home, you can access them with your PPL card from here or with other New Jersey library cards through JerseyClicks.
I promised this would be the short version, but there are just a few more things I want to call out. Our technology services include a selection of professional software available on the Macs in our second-floor Technology Center, which can help you with tools to boost your marketing materials, for example. Among our Library of Things are resources like wifi hotspots, portable power stations and projectors for taking your business offsite. Finally, consider using our rental spaces for group meetings or staff training.
This summer, make the most of what we have to offer. If you’re not sure if the library can help with your particular needs, just ask us! We’ll be happy to let you know how our resources might apply or else we can help point you toward other sources of information.
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