Home of the Curious: Small Business Starters

All of us who walk through the doors of Chicago Public Library have one thing in common—curiosity. Each visit brings a new opportunity for discovery.

Our Home of the Curious campaign features real Chicagoans and the unique ways they each use Library services and programs to ignite their curiosity—and we're hoping it inspires you to explore new ways to use your library.

Small Business Starters

Resources for Small Business Starters include titles you can check out, programs, events and resources for building your business know-how—all ways you can call the Library home if you're an entrepreneur.

These are some recommended titles to inspire business owners and provide practical resources:

#Girlboss

Accounting for the Numberphobic

Zero to One

Start your Own Business

Boss Life

And some titles for budding entrepreneurs:

Start It up

Beyond the Lemonade Stand

Entrepreneurship

Quick Ca$h for Teens

Events and Programs

Want to start a company, but unsure how? Get a tutorial on how to use all the free business resources at CPL at our Business Intelligence event in May, then attend the Small Businesses Resources Open House! Join Bezazian Branch for their April business events and take the mystery out of becoming a corporation. If your business is philanthropy, learn how to start a nonprofit during our upcoming events with Good City.

We're also offering study groups for online classes through a partnership with Peer 2 Peer University. Improve your public speaking or learn how to build a website for your business, and get in-person support at your library.

Plus, we offer ongoing resources like our CyberNavigator program at every location. They can help you brush up on your digital skills or learn how to use a new software program to better your business. Contact your location for CN hours. Part of the Maker Movement or beginning an advanced manufacturing career? Visit our Maker Lab to create with digital design software, vinyl cutters, 3D printers and laser cutters.

We have so many ways for you to engage with your community, learn something new and discover something wonderful. To the curious, Welcome Home.