Public Libraries Highlight Business Support at ‘Main Street Now’ Conference
As we continue to see changes on the federal level — layoffs of federal workers, cutting of support programs — and rising costs, more people are already coming into libraries for help finding employment and looking for ways to supplement their income. That’s where public libraries of all sizes come in. And that’s what we need our local stakeholders, governments, and economic support organizations to know: libraries build economic opportunity and thriving local economies.
On April 8, 2025, at the Main Street Now Conference in Philadelphia, Megan Janicki (ALA) and I presented on how public libraries support economic development. A common and familiar refrain we heard was “I didn’t know libraries did that.” Libraries already do much that can support small businesses and entrepreneurs. As we navigate uncertain economic times, supporting economic development is a key way we can support our communities. Libraries are uniquely positioned to meet this moment by showcasing the resources and services we offer to support and strengthen community economic development
What we learned at the conference? Main Streets leaders are itching for what libraries already offer — but they hadn’t even thought to include the library in their economic development plans. It’s our job to get the word out on all the amazing services and resources available in a cornerstone, familiar and trusted institution: the public library.
How do libraries support entrepreneurs and small business development? There are five main ways libraries provide support:
Programs and Services
Whether library staff are leading a training on how to use our databases or hosting a subject matter expert to discuss a specialized topic, small business programming can be as simple or as complex as your capacity allows. Not every program needs to be a multi-part series or focus on building a business plan. Identifying and collaborating with partners can help expand your reach. Be sure to promote the value your library offers to potential partners—our location, hours, and foot traffic are often far greater than what most organizations can access on their own.
In addition to programming, consider the services you already offer that may benefit small business owners. Notary, passport, or social work services could all be useful resources. And remember: they don’t know what they don’t know—so be sure to actively share all the ways your library can support small businesses and entrepreneurs.
Entrepreneurs at BCPL. Photo courtesy of the author.
Space
Libraries are located in communities of need and are often one of the only places where you don’t have to buy anything, not even a coffee, to stay and work. Whether someone is working from home and wants a change of scenery or they’re simply looking for a relatively quiet place to focus, it’s worth reminding them: the library is for them. Whether you offer meeting rooms or just open table space, libraries can be promoted as free co-working spaces. Sometimes, something as simple as space can make a big difference to someone at the beginning of their small business journey.
Databases and Resources
Our databases can be incredibly valuable to business owners—if they know they’re available. For instance, Reference Solutions, a widely available business intelligence database in public libraries, can save entrepreneurs thousands of dollars by helping them generate targeted marketing leads. At Baltimore County Public Library—and thousands of other public libraries—we offer free access (with a library card, of course) to LinkedIn Learning, where users can take expert-led, on-demand classes on a range of business topics, from marketing and sales to finance and management.
BCPL’s Entrepreneur Academy Photo courtesy of author.
Free is what public libraries do best, and that extends beyond programs to the materials we offer. Your Library of Things might include items that can support small businesses and save them money. For example, many libraries lend out camera kits that include a point-and-shoot camera, tripod, ring light, and lightbox, tools that could be essential for marketing a product or service.
Technology
This might seem obvious to you, but it’s often not obvious to our community members, partners, or local leaders. Across the country, there are 17,000 technology-enabled public library locations offering free access to high-speed Wi-Fi, computers, and printers—critical resources for emerging business owners. Some libraries also lend out hotspots and Chromebooks, expanding digital access beyond our walls. Makerspaces and 3D printers aren’t just for fun; in many libraries, they provide entrepreneurs with tools to design and test prototypes. Public libraries are also ideal places for small business owners to explore emerging technologies and build essential digital skills.
Networking and Connections
By offering our spaces, public programs, and referrals to support organizations, libraries serve as hubs where people can connect with one another. We’ve found that aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners truly value the chance to share experiences, exchange ideas, and tackle challenges together. Hosting networking nights, creating mentorship opportunities, and lending space for programs like 1 Million Cups are simple yet impactful ways to cultivate a connected and supportive small business community.
What Can You Do Now?
Every public library—regardless of size—has something valuable to offer. Not sure where to begin? Start by leveraging and promoting the resources you already have to your small business community. Sometimes, how you describe a resource can make all the difference. For instance, a small, free room you call a “study room” could be rebranded as a “conference or small group meeting room.” Simply being “at the table” and sharing what your library can offer is a great first step. Reach out to your local economic support organizations—such as county departments, Small Business Development Centers, community development corporations, chambers, and business associations—to let them know your library is here and ready to support. Building these relationships is key to embedding your business support services into the wider community. From what we heard at the Main Streets Now Conference, local business associations and leaders are actively looking for these kinds of partnerships.
Check out ALA’s Economic Opportunity webpage for resources to get started. The Libraries Build Business Communications Toolkit, for example, can help with outreach to key business stakeholders.
Tags: libraryservicetobusiness, libraryservicetoentrepreneurs
