Become an Entrepreneurship Librarian
Libraries as Launchpads works with libraries to become hubs for creative entrepreneurs, building capacity in librarians as entrepreneurship resource experts.
The Libraries as Launchpads Initiative Aims To
EQUIP
Librarians and transform Libraries into accessible hubs for creative entrepreneurs their local communities
SUPPORT
Equity and inclusion in local entrepreneurship ecosystems
ADVOCATE
For the multifaceted value libraries provide their communities
Current Program
Libraries as Launchpads:
Certification One
Certified Entrepreneurship Librarian – 8-week professional development program for librarians and library staff.
Thursdays, March 2 – April 20, 2023
11:00 AM – 12:30 PM (MST)
NEW! We’re offering 3 free spots to small and rural libraries based on identified need and ability to fully commit. If this applies to your library, register here!
In the program, you’ll work with our team of entrepreneurship and ecosystem experts, collaborate with a cohort of like-minded librarians, and engage in an intensive, hands-on program.
The outcome?
You’ll get the
expertise to ›
expertise to ›
Support entrepreneurs
In finding the resources they need to take the next steps with their businesses
Identify gaps
In support in your local entrepreneurship ecosystem
Launch a new offering
To creative entrepreneurs through your library
Collaborate
With mission-aligned partners and connect with local entrepreneurial support experts
Advocate
For your library as an asset for entrepreneurs
Have questions? Come chat with us!
Want to learn more? Join us for one of our upcoming info sessions with our Launchpads Team.
What We Do
Libraries as Launchpads works with libraries to fill gaps in support for local entrepreneurs through cohort-based development opportunities for librarians and library staff.
How Libraries and Librarians Benefit
- Professional Development
- Adaptability for Change
- Supportive Community
- Impact Reporting
- Library Advocacy
Not everyone starting a business has equal access to support.
Building a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem requires advocating for inclusion and the installation of accessible touchpoints.
As a librarian, you are uniquely positioned to offer support. Libraries are:
- Resource equalizers
- Responsive to the needs of their communities
- Trusted places to find accurate information
HAPPY PARTICIPANTS
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Are you ready to grow your business?
We equip libraries to support you on the journey towards a successful business.
Certified Entrepreneurship Librarians know where to find resources and information you need to take the next steps with your business or idea. Hub Libraries host programming for entrepreneurs to test an idea for its potential to be a profitable business.
Check the map to see if there’s a Launchpad Library near you!
Want your library on the map too?
Register
for Libraries as Launchpads
“When a patron walks in and says ‘I’m starting a business’ [our libraries] will be well positioned to support them.”
ELI GUINNEE
New Mexico State Librarians
New Mexico State Librarians
Deadline to register is February 15, 2023
Early Bird pricing runs until
January 20, 2023
Frequently Asked Questions
February 15th, 2022
(Early bird registration payments are due by January 20th.)
(Early bird registration payments are due by January 20th.)
Are you a small or rural library?
We’re currently offering 3 free spots to small and rural libraries based on identified need and ability to fully commit. If this applies to your library, register here!
No, any librarian or library staff person can participate in the training.
You can expect to spend at least 5 hours a week during the 8 weeks. Though, many participants have reported spending much more time.
Yes! And Maybe. We’ve had many university librarians participate in our program. As long as you want to increase your ability to support entrepreneurs – whether that be students, the general public, or a specific group of people – this program will help!
Let’s talk! Contact the Libraries as Launchpads team today.
You may download this PDF containing more details about the Libraries as Launchpads program.
You can also sign up for one of our upcoming info sessions where you can chat with our Launchpads Team and answer any questions you may have.
Yes! Download this PDF to learn more.
Become a resource expert!
Download our free
Entrepreneur Reference Interview PDF
Sign up to get updates and receive a free download of the Entrepreneur Reference Interview. Designed to support you when talking with entrepreneurs — the Interviews help you to understand: the stage they are at in business development, how well they understand why people buy / would buy from them, and the current struggles they are facing. This template will help you work with entrepreneurs to find the best resources for where they currently are in developing their businesses.