SCOBI Business Information in the Public Library
BUSINESS INFORMATION IN THE PUBLIC LIBRARY:
A PROSPECTUS FOR THE 21ST CENTURY
1) Definition
Business information signifies:
a data of all kinds on those organisations (including firms, official bodies and voluntary bodies) which go to make up the economic life of the United Kingdom and all other countries and
b data on the setting in which such organisations operate (particularly statistical and market intelligence sources).
2) Role of the public library
Provision of business information will be appropriate to local needs and circumstances, but the role of the public library service is more pervasive than maybe generally recognised since even the smallest service point will possess a copy of the local Yellow Pages, one of the most heavily used items in business libraries on the largest scale.
3) Potential users
a enquirers from business, industry and other sectors seeking information on potential suppliers, customers, competitors and markets. (It should be noted that public libraries are also well placed to meet this sector's needs for other information in fields such as law, official publications, science and technology, standards and much else.)
b citizens and consumers seeking information on suppliers and investments.
c jobseekers for data on potential employers and employment prospects.
d students
e local studies enquirers for both current and historical information.
4) Relevance of public libraries
Many business information sources are more accessible in public libraries (with their free access and extended opening hours) than elsewhere (for example, directories of all kinds, statistics, networked CD-ROM titles). Business information remains a niche market for public libraries to exploit. It also offers, despite the cost of some of the materials, good value for money, since the resources promote economic regeneration and serve an unusually wide range of users. Co-operation or joint working with relevant local agencies (for example, Business Link, chambers of commerce, economic development units) will enhance the level of service provided.
5) Means of delivery
All except the smallest authorities are in a position to offer a core collection and service libraries, backed by a more comprehensive provision with specialised staff at one or more central points. At all levels successful delivery is heavily dependent on the quality of staffing.
Most enquiries for business information are ideally suited to telephone, fax or email exchanges which ensure that centrally held resources are widely accessible.
March 1998.
Updated: 22 February 2008