Toronto Reference Library Blog

Today, there are over 1 million small businesses across Canada that employ almost half of the Canadian private sector workforce. Each year, 130,000 more small businesses are created. Small businesses are providing the impetus that will drive our economy forward.

Behind all that there is an incredible amount of work that entrepreneurs put into creating small businesses and a lot of research which needs to be done before they can start.

There are organizations such as the Toronto Business Development Centre and Enterprise Toronto which offer excellent programs to assist people in getting their businesses up and running.

But many people don’t think of asking for help from those who are trained to find business information on a daily basis.  The Toronto Reference Library not only has a strong collection of print materials and business databases, it also has professional librarians who can help navigate the wealth of information that is available.

Call ahead or fill out a form online http://www.torontopubliclibrary.ca/book-a-librarian/ .  A librarian will interview you about your research needs and set up an appointment at a time convenient to you.  He or she will prepare a package of materials listing books, journals, directories, websites or databases to help you whether you are researching your industry, determining your market and competitors or preparing your business plan.

Those who have used the service have commented:

“[The librarian] was very helpful.  She was able to identify resources and direct me/suggest alternatives which I had not known.”

“I know I would have had much difficulty doing this without her assistance and again want to thank her for sharing time from her busy schedule to help me.”

“This is an excellent program and I want to give a note of thanks to the library management for having this service available to the public.”

“I would absolutely recommend this service to others.”

Today, there are over 1 million small businesses across Canada that employ almost half of the Canadian private sector workforce. Each year, 130,000 more small businesses are created. Small businesses are providing the impetus that will drive our economy forward.

Behind all that there is an incredible amount of work that entrepreneurs put into creating small businesses and a lot of research which needs to be done before they can start.

There are organizations such as the Toronto Business Development Centre and Enterprise Toronto which offer excellent programs to assist people in getting their businesses up and running.

But many people don’t think of asking for help from those who are trained to find business information on a daily basis.  The Toronto Reference Library not only has a strong collection of print materials and business databases, it also has professional librarians who can help navigate the wealth of information that is available.

Call ahead or fill out a form online http://www.torontopubliclibrary.ca/book-a-librarian/ .  A librarian will interview you about your research needs and set up an appointment at a time convenient to you.  He or she will prepare a package of materials listing books, journals, directories, websites or databases to help you whether you are researching your industry, determining your market and competitors or preparing your business plan.

Those who have used the service have commented:

“[The librarian] was very helpful.  She was able to identify resources and direct me/suggest alternatives which I had not known.”

“I know I would have had much difficulty doing this without her assistance and again want to thank her for sharing time from her busy schedule to help me.”

“This is an excellent program and I want to give a note of thanks to the library management for having this service available to the public.”

“I would absolutely recommend this service to others.”