IN FOCUS: September 2010
Back To School, Back In Business
In the coming weeks the Free Library will offer a bevy of exciting new business programs sure to educate and energize. Also, many of these programs will be held at library branches throughout the city. They say Philadelphia is a city of neighborhoods, so take this opportunity to visit our many locations and increase your business IQ while you're at it.
If you have ever dreamed of opening your own business, but just don't know where to begin: start here. If your business plan needs a little tweaking to really make it stand out: start here. If you are looking for information on doing business with the city or state; if you are interested in minority business certification; if you would like to learn how to make your retail space irresistable to customers; if you need help determining what type of web presence is right for your business; if you are wondering where to open that second location, or if you are trying to decide how to spend your advertising dollars: start here.
Whatever your business, start at the Free Library of Philadelphia. In this edition of our newsletter you will learn how we can help connect you to the small business resources you need. |
SEPTEMBER PROGRAMS
When Having a Website Makes Dollars and Cents for Small Business Wednesday September 15th, 6:30 PM Parkway Central Library, 1901 Vine St 19103
Every business seems to have a website or a Facebook page nowadays. Should yours? Learn what sort of web presence is right for your business. Then learn to make it profitable, effective, and hassle-free. Our presenter, Amy Larrimore, brings a decade of experience helping small businesses use technology wisely. Sponsored by SCORE Philadelphia.
Click here to register or call 215-686-5394.
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Small Business Sales Workshop
Wednesday September 15th, 6:00 PM Wadsworth Library, 1500 Wadsworth Ave 19150
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How To Secure an SBA Loan
Saturday September 18th, 2:00 PM Lucien E Blackwell West Philadelphia Regional Library,
125 S 52nd St., 19139
Learn about the process and eligibility involved in securing a loan for a small business from Joe and Pat Massengale, realtors and financial advisors. Loans ranging from $5,000 to $50,000 are secured by the SBA and available for new and existing businesses. Funds may be used to expand, purchase inventory or equipment, for marketing and improvements or to increase your workforce.
For more information call 215-685-7433.
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"Wow What A Window!" Retail Store Layouts and Window Displays for Maximum Sales Wednesday, September 22nd, 6:30 PM Lovett Memorial Library
6495 Germantown Ave., 19119
Whether you are a new or experienced retailer, this workshop will give you tools, tips and techniques to create a shopping environment that attracts customers and ultimately converts browsers to purchasers. Our presenter, Iola Harper, specializes in providing marketing and business development assistance to companies nationwide.
Click here to register or call 215-685-2095. |
FEATURED RESOURCE:

The Business & Company Resource Center database is one-stop shopping for up-to-date, specialized magazine and journal articles on your industry and market. You will also find expert market and industry analysis, in-depth reports on many companies and corporations, information on brand names, market share, industry rankings, wholesalers and distributors, as well as professional and trade associations. Business & Company Resource Center is available from your home or office PC when you login through the Free Library's website with your library card number and PIN. Visit our database page to get started. |
UPCOMING: Free Business Database Training Classes for Entrepreneurs!
Business Plan Series - This two-part class, being offered twice in the coming months, will show you how to use library resources to create a great business plan. Free and open to the public.
Business Plans Part I: Tuesday, September 14, 6:30 PM Joseph E Coleman Northwest Regional Library
68 W Chelten Ave., 19144
For information: 215-685-2153
Tuesday, October 19, 6:00 PM Lucien E Blackwell West Philadelphia Regional Library 125 S 52nd St., 19139 For information: 215-685-7433 Business Plans Part II:
Tuesday, September 21, 6:30 PM Joseph E Coleman Northwest Regional Library 68 W Chelten Ave., 19144
For information: 215-685-2153
Tuesday, October 26, 6:00 PM
Lucien E Blackwell West Philadelphia Regional Library
125 S 52nd St., 19139
For information: 215-685-7433
No registration required but space is limited. First come, first served.
Basic computer skills are a prerequisite. |
SCORE at the Library: Business Advice & Counseling
Free and confidential business advice and counseling, tailored to meet your needs, is now available at Free Library locations throughout the city. Counseling is provided by SCORE Philadelphia. Reservations are required. Contact SCORE online or call 215-231-9880 to schedule your appointment.
Business Research with a Librarian
The librarians of the Business, Science & Industry Department are available for one-on-one research training sessions by appointment. Our librarians can help you research your industry, learn how to find competitors and demographic information for your business plan by using our databases, as well as acquaint you with our many resources for entrepreneurs. To schedule an appointment email us or call: 215-686-5394. |
MAKING CONNECTIONS: BACK TO SCHOOL
Opportunities abound to hone your entrepreneurial skills and sharpen your small business perspective. Check out the upcoming courses and trainings sessions for aspiring, new, and established business owners being offered by a few of our favorite local organizations.
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Delivering Happiness: A Path to Profits, Passion and Purpose by Tony Hsieh  ...................................... Crush It!: Why NOW Is the Time to Cash In On Your Passion by Gary Vaynerchuck  ...................................... Rework
by Jason Fried  ...................................... Handmade Marketplace: How To Sell Your Crafts Locally, Globally and Online by Kari Chapin  ...................................... The Most Successful Small Business In the World: The Ten Principals by Michael Gerber |
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