9 Ways to Use the Library for Your Business

Why Entrepreneurs Should Use the Library for Market Research

With AI-powered search engines and Google at our fingertips, it’s easy to assume that the internet alone can meet all our research needs. But here’s the catch: online search results are heavily influenced by personalized algorithms. While that’s useful for showing you targeted ads, it doesn’t always provide an unbiased or comprehensive view of your business and its market.

That’s where the library comes in. Libraries subscribe to credible databases and expert sources that deliver facts, trends, and studies straight from the professionals in your field. For business owners, this means access to high-quality, reliable information that goes far beyond a quick Google search.

If you’re not sure where to begin, don’t worry—this guide introduces you to 9 essential library resources that can help any entrepreneur on their market research journey.


1. Entrepreneurship

This digital resource is filled with insights, strategies, and success stories tailored for entrepreneurs and business students. You’ll find trend reports, tips for adopting new technologies, and industry-specific updates. A good starting point is to search your industry, then narrow results with more keywords as you go. Check out Entrepreneurship on our website. 


2. Business Collection

This database covers a wide range of business and financial disciplines, including accounting, marketing, economics, management, and strategy. It also explores emerging topics—such as the impact of AI across different industries. Try pairing your field of work with “AI” in a search to uncover the latest developments. Check out Business Collection on our website. 


3. Small Business Source

Packed with practical information for small business owners, this resource covers licensing, acquisitions, management trends, tax deductions, patents, and even green initiatives practices. While it’s no substitute for legal advice, it’s a great tool to build your foundational knowledge of business law. Check out Small Business Source on our website.


4. Reference Solutions

A powerful tool for both research and fraud prevention, you can search U.S. and Canadian businesses by name, location, sales volume, employee size, SIC/NAICS code, and more. It’s invaluable for understanding your competition, verifying potential partners, and identifying partnership scams before you commit. Check out Reference Solutions on our website. Not sure of your NAICS code? You can look it up on Statistics Canada.


5. Insurance & Liability

This digital collection of nearly 40 journals covers the multi-billion-dollar insurance industry, including labor relations, legal issues, mortgage banking, and fraud cases. It’s especially useful for entrepreneurs in real estate or property management, where risk assessment and liability are top concerns. Check out Insurance & Liability on our website. 


6. MPL Business Page & Business Programs

Markham Public Library (MPL) offers a hub of resources to support local businesses: blog posts, free programs, online tools, and curated book lists. You’ll also find links to external organizations and government agencies that provide additional support for entrepreneurs. Check out MPL Business webpage for more details and join its business e-newsletter so you do not miss the next business programs at the library. 


7. MPL Digital Media Equipment

Need professional photos to elevate your brand? Borrow high-quality DSLR cameras, video gear, and audio equipment with a library card to capture product shots or record a podcast. Items can be borrowed for 14 days, giving you flexibility without the cost of buying your own gear. Check out what else you can borrow in our digital media equipment collection


8. MPL Makerspace

 Perfect for prototyping, MPL makerspace offers access to 3D printers, CNC mills, laser engravers and more across five branches. Material costs are competitive, and MPL also runs beginner-friendly workshops so you can learn to use the equipment with confidence. Do you need to create a prototype for your business? Check out our website to get started. 


9. MPL Lendery Collection

Save money on small projects by borrowing tools instead of buying them. Whether you need a drill, sander, or other handy equipment for business maintenance or need an additional coffee maker for your next event planning venue, our tool lendery collection can help you get the job done without added expenses. Check out what else you can borrow in our lendery collection now! 


Final Thoughts

Market research doesn’t have to be overwhelming—or expensive. By leveraging your Markham Public Library's specialized resources, you gain access to reliable, professional insights and practical tools that can give your business a competitive edge. Whether you’re researching industry trends, prototyping a product, or simply borrowing equipment to cut costs, the library is a powerful partner on your entrepreneurial journey.