Business News: Business Resources & Help from Your Library

Welcome to the Deschutes Public Library’s business newsletter. As our region has grown, so has the business community, with more business start-ups per capita than anywhere else in Oregon. This quarterly newsletter features business resources and services available at your library and beyond. Discover new books and online resources from the library, plus other information about library partners and featured websites. If you know of anyone who might be interested, please share and encourage them to subscribe.

Visit Our Business Resources Page

Level Up Your Marketing Skills with the Deschutes Public Library

Whether you're growing a business, running a nonprofit, or building a personal brand, marketing is the key to getting noticed. It’s all about knowing your audience, crafting a compelling message, and using the right tools to reach people where they are. The good news? The Deschutes Public Library (DPL) has everything you need to sharpen those skills—and it’s all completely free.

Curious about the why and how of marketing? DPL gives you free access to top-notch learning platforms like LinkedIn Learning and Gale Courses. These expert-led programs cover digital marketing, branding, market research, social media strategy, and much more. With hundreds of professional development courses available—most of which would normally cost you money—you can start learning right away, on your own schedule.

If you're an entrepreneur, small business owner, or just thinking about launching something new, data is your best friend. DPL offers powerful research tools like AtoZ Databases, SimplyAnalytics, and Gale Business: Insights. These databases provide deep insights into market trends, consumer behavior, geographic patterns, and industry forecasts—perfect for pinpointing your target audience and making smarter business decisions.

Of course, books still play a big role. Whether you're brushing up on branding or diving into SEO, DPL’s collection includes the latest titles on marketing strategy, copywriting, design, and analytics. No matter your experience level, we can help you find just the right materials to meet your goals.

Need help getting started? Fill out a Book-a-Librarian request, and one of our knowledgeable staff will guide you through the resources and tools available. Your next big marketing breakthrough might just begin at the library.

Boost Your Business Skills with Libby

Looking to grow your business savvy without breaking the bank? Try Libby, the free app from the Deschutes Public Library that gives you access to thousands of eBooks and audiobooks—including top-rated business titles.

Whether you're interested in leadership, entrepreneurship, marketing, or personal finance, Libby offers a wide selection of bestsellers and classics from authors like Simon Sinek, Brené Brown, Seth Godin, and Malcolm Gladwell. You can browse categories, place holds, and download titles right to your phone, tablet, or e-reader—perfect for learning on the go.

All you need is a library card. Download the Libby app today and start leveling up your business knowledge—anytime, anywhere.

U.S. Census Bureau’s Small Business Data

Offers reliable statistics on small business trends, demographics, and economic impact. Ideal for entrepreneurs, researchers, and planners, it helps users make data-driven decisions, understand market conditions, and explore business patterns across industries and regions. A must-use resource for informed business planning.

Around the Web: Is Social Media Marketing Still Worth It?

Wondering if social media marketing is still worth your time? This article breaks down current trends, platform performance, and real marketer insights to help you decide. It’s a quick, informative read for anyone looking to maximize results and stay competitive in today’s evolving digital landscape.

Best of Biz Book List

Looking for inspiration as you plan and grow your business? Check out these business and leadership books from your local business librarian Liisa Sjoblom. Follow the list and check back monthly for new recommendations. This month’s featured title is Talk to Me Nice by Minda Harts.

About the Author

Have you ever considered starting your own business but aren't sure where to begin? Community Librarian Liisa has 25 years of experience serving businesses and nonprofits through research and referrals. She entered library-land through a library assistant position at an academic library. After six years, she went off to graduate school and later found her place at Deschutes Public Library. Her working days are devoted to helping nonprofits with grant research and assisting entrepreneurs in fulfilling their dreams of business ownership, providing excellent customer service along the way. “The best part of working with both communities is attending their meetings and networking opportunities to listen and learn what is affecting their work, both short-term and long-term,” says Liisa. She helps with DPL programs like Book-a-Librarian, which is tailored to meet the customer’s needs. “I am one of the rare librarians who is an extrovert. Give me time to network with others and I thrive.”

Thanks for reading and, again, please share with anyone else who you think would benefit from this information. If you have questions or suggestions about the business resources at your library, feel free to email liisas@deschuteslibrary.org.