Libraries are info central for workaholics

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December 31, 2009

Your Libraries

Most people think of their library's collection as a place to escape from work. Workaholics obsessed with their business or careers find that their libraries provide them with information crucial to their job. One needs current and fresh information to make decisions that increase your success. Your library will help you locate the information you need.

There are numerous books about management. Subtopics include personnel management, communication, marketing, and being a rookie boss. Dilbert books will give you a good chuckle along with management lessons.

Directories may help you locate business contacts. There are directories for all types of businesses. Harris New England Manufacturers Directory lists manufacturers by name, geographic location, SIC code, and by product. Aspiring authors may find The Writer's Market to be a worthy tool to locate agents and publishers.

Interested in starting a new business? There are many books and Web sites to help you become an entrepreneur. The Chester Public Library has several titles in the Startup series and the book How to Start a Business in New Hampshire. The NH Business Resource Center's Web site (http://www.nheconomy.com) also contains information about establishing your business in the Granite State. Not sure how to write a business plan? There are many titles providing tips and examples.

You may find that your work requires you to learn another language. Books and audio books will help you to read, write, and speak a new language. Many worthy titles are available at your library and in the New Hampshire Downloadable Audiobooks Web site (http://nh.lib.overdrive.com). Check with your library for instructions to access this site.

The New Hampshire State Library provides several online resources to your local library. The Business Source Premier, powered by EBSCOHost, is an online database containing thousands of business articles from mainstream, scholarly, and local business publications. You'll also find country reports, industry reports, SWOT analyses, and company profiles. Newsbank is an online resource containing back issues of the Union Leader (1989-present) and the Concord Monitor (2002-present). You may search Newsbank for information about a local company or people in your field. Contact your library for instructions to access these resources.

Check out your local libraries for business resources. If they don't have the resource you need, they'll locate it at another library, or may find an online resource to suit your needs.

Be sure also to take the time to unwind by checking out some leisure materials for reading or viewing. You may need to take care of business, but you also need to relax and take care of yourself. Have a productive and fun 2010!

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Tim Sheehan is the director of the Chester Public Library. He can be reached at 887-3404.