May is National Small Business Month, according to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and a time to celebrate the contributions of small businesses in communities across the country—including Philly! Like The Free Library of Philadelphia, small businesses play a big role in our city. Whether it’s creating jobs, providing valuable goods and services, driving innovation, or simply boosting the local economy, small businesses fill a vital need! Here are a few of the many ways the Free Library is helping small business owners and job seekers in our area.
The Business Resource and Innovation Center
If you are an emerging entrepreneur or an established small business owner, the Business Resource and Innovation Center (BRIC) can help you fulfill your goals. Housed at the Parkway Central Library, the BRIC supports entrepreneurs, nonprofits, and inventors at every stage, through individualized guidance in research, public programs, curated print and digital resources. Free professional headshots are also offered the first and third Thursday of the month, with drop in times from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on both days. Request an appointment for a one-on-one session, take a virtual or in-person tour of the co-working space, or attend one of the upcoming free or low-cost events to learn more about the BRIC.
Patents and Trademarks
Do you need help with securing a patent for your great new product or invention, or are you looking to trademark a business name, slogan, logo, or brand? The Free Library of Philadelphia is a Patent and Trademark Resource Center (PTRC), as designated by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). In fact, it’s one of only three in the state and the only one in eastern Pennsylvania! Contact or visit the Parkway Central Library to learn more about patents and trademarks and how to protect your intellectual property as a Philly innovator or small business owner.
Resources for Job Seekers
Want to take your first step towards a new career? The Free Library of Philadelphia offers a wealth of resources for job seekers, including one-on-one assistance and events at neighborhood library locations, computer classes, career workshops, and training opportunities in Health Care, Construction, Information Technology, Manufacturing, Education, Hospitality, and more. You’ll also find helpful electronic resources at the Library, such as sample resumes, tips for a successful interview, job listings by industry, and a downloadable Free Library Guide to Launch Your New Career.
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The Free Library is one of the most important educational and cultural institutions in Philadelphia. While the City of Philadelphia provides public funds for the operations of the Free Library, it is through the Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation and the generosity of private funding from individuals, foundations, and corporations that the Free Library is able to offer many of the Library’s incredible programs and activities that advance literacy, guide learning, inspire curiosity throughout the region, and help deliver on the promise of an equitable future for all of Philadelphia’s children, families, and communities.