One of the most frequently overlooked business resources is the public library. The Columbia Public Library, headquarters of the Daniel Boone Regional Library System, has a comprehensive collection of business books, periodicals, and reference materials. Library professionals are trained to help you organize your search and gather the necessary information for your business. With University Extension and the Columbia SBDC, the Columbia Public Library cosponsors a wide array of business seminars that are useful to both the start-up business and established operations. Public and university libraries, Chambers of Commerce, and SBDCs should have these available.
Individual subscriptions are available locally.
Chambers of Commerce develop community profiles that provide an abundance of information about a community's population, business information and trends, and quality of life issues. Promoting economic development is one of the most important components of the Chamber of Commerce's mission. The Columbia Chamber of Commerce has a small business committee that meets regularly to address the needs of the local small business community. Chambers of Commerce employ professionals who can give you vital information. They also can direct you to experts in the community to help you.