The Grand Rapids Public Library is proud to include the Small Business Resource Center on its Lower Level. The Center is extremely helpful to business owners who appreciate receiving free timely and reliable help when it comes to all phases of management. There is designated workspace, business databases, Internet, copier and fax access together with librarians as guides.

At the Small Business Resource Center, an owner can learn how to turn a unique idea into a successful small business, find financing sources, learn how to develop and write a business plan, target new customers, conduct industry research, view content from business journals and reference sources, have access to pertinent books and databases, learn about financial planning, how to market a product, how to franchise a business, and so much more in order to grow the business. Also offered are classes and individual appointments.

Using Facebook

“Using Facebook to Promote Your Business” will be offered on April 19 from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Learn about planning, starting and growing your business using this social networking website.

Small Business Classes

A free Market Research Series will be held on May 7, May 14 and May 21 from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Learn how to research the specific market, customers and competitors in this series.

A Small Business Class on “Defining Points: Understanding Balance Check” will be held on May 28 from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Every business faces leadership challenges that can be overcome with the proper preparation. Learn how to preserve your resources, survive the challenges and how to pass your business on.

SCORE at the Library

SCORE is a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs succeed in a small business. A SCORE certified business counselor holds consulting sessions on the first Thursday morning of each month, and the appointments are free.

Small Business e-Newsletter

This quarterly e-Newsletter will be sent directly to your inbox or is available in a print edition. It contains small business owner interviews, classes information, entrepreneurship resources, new book reviews from the Grand Rapids Public Library’s Business and Economics collections, local events and more.