Strategic Plan 2012-2015

Toronto
Public Library supports small business owners and entrepreneurs in a variety of
ways, some traditional and some unexpected.

Spaces
to Meet and Work

Every
one of our 98 branches is a potential work or meeting place, with tables,
free wifi, and computers with Internet and MS Office.  Many locations also have meeting rooms and
auditoriums that can be rented for reasonable rates.

Expert
Staff Assistance

Librarians
at the district and research and reference libraries have knowledge and access
to specialized content on business topics. 
This support is available at information desks, through the business
blog, or during a scheduled one-on-one consultation on business resources.

Specialized
Business Resources

We
have books, e-books and articles on marketing, business plans, human resources
and financing, and your library card gives you access to more than 25 business
databases, such as Associations Canada, Scott’s Business Directories Online,
and Mergent Online, which provides company information and annual reports.

Programs
and Seminars

Throughout
the year, the library offers free seminars and workshops on social media,
market research, franchising, and more. 
New entrepreneurs just starting out can apply to Business Inc., a nine
week comprehensive program offered in association with Toronto Business
Development Centre.

Small
Business Month

This
October we celebrate Small Business Month with a broad range of programs
throughout the city and, for the first time, an Entrepreneur in Residence
who can advise and answer small business questions during programs, through
regular blog posts, and at one-on-one consultations.

Join the
Conversation!

Toronto Public
Library is developing the Strategic Plan 2012-2015 to
help achieve its draft vision:

Toronto
Public Library will be recognized as the world’s leading public library,
helping make Torontonians smarter, successful and resilient, through excellent
and responsive service.

Your feedback is
invaluable. Help the library develop this plan for residents of Toronto.

Please
have your say by telling us:

1. How
   has the library helped you start or build your own business?
2. What
   small business information is most important to you?
3. How
   else can'the library help create and inspire a city of innovators,
   entrepreneurs, and creators of all ages?