Entrepreneur and Small Business Resources
Browse our catalog for recommendations for entrepreneurs.
Entrepreneur Academy
Do you have a great idea for a small business but don’t know how to launch it? Already started a business but unsure how to take it to the next level? Interested in being your own boss? Join the Entrepreneur Academy, where you’ll learn the steps involved in starting a successful business, including business strategies, market research, financial recordkeeping and taxes, and how to develop a business plan from subject-matter experts. Hear from legal, financial, and accounting professionals, network with fellow entrepreneurs, and take advantage of extensive library and business resources.
This multi-part series was created in partnership with the Enoch Pratt Free Library, the Small Business Development Center and the CASH Campaign of Maryland.
Learn about upcoming sessions by emailing ace@bcpl.net.
Upcoming Events
Programs are available both in branches and virtually, and range from networking, marketing, and funding events to one-on-one small business counseling. Check our online events calendar for complete details.
My Librarian for Small Business
Get one-on-one assistance with a small business specialist via My Librarian's free, 60-minute session, either online or over the phone. Schedule your appointment.
Additional Library Services
Technology
The library has free WiFi and public computers, printers, copiers and scanners for use in branches, and Chromebooks and Hotspots available for checkout.
Space to Work
We have conference and small group study rooms available at most branches (reserved or walk-in use), table space for co-working, and designated quiet work zones at most branches.
Databases
Specialized online resources with authoritative business and financial information can be accessed from home or work with your library card. Our top picks for entrepreneurs and business owners:
- Gale Business: Plan Builder: Both experienced and new entrepreneurs can use this step-by-step online planning tool for starting, managing and optimizing a business or nonprofit. New users: Select the orange Get Started button to create an account (required for use).
- Reference Solutions: For market research, sales lead-list generation and conducting a competitive analysis. Become familiar with existing businesses and potential competition by searching listings of U.S. and Canadian businesses. Search results provide location, contact information, employee size, yearly sales volume, and more. The consumer database includes demographics and lifestyle attributes.
- Legal Forms Library: Includes Maryland business, personal, real estate and general legal forms.
- Linked In Learning (formerly Lynda.com): Unlimited training on a wide variety of topics and categories, including business, creative and technology. Business topics include finance and accounting, customer service, marketing, human resources, leadership and management, sales and more.
- Value Line: Source of information and advice on approximately 1,700 stocks, more than 90 industries, the stock market and the economy. Use this resource to learn more about your industry and current industry trends.
External Resources
- Maryland Business Express guides new and existing Maryland business owners through the process of planning, starting, managing and growing a business.
- The U.S. Small Business Administration offers sections on planning, launching, managing and growing your small business.
- The Maryland Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Network provides sound advice, consulting and support to entrepreneurs and small businesses across the state.
- The Baltimore County Department of Economic and Workforce Development provides information on starting and growing your business in Baltimore County, as well as certifications and contracts, getting funded and finding the right location.
- The Baltimore County Chamber of Commerce is a member-driven, member-supported organization whose mission is to promote, grow and sustain a diverse and healthy business community that will enrich the quality of life and enhance prosperity in the Baltimore region.