North Yorkshire libraries add free help for start-ups
By the demoduck.co.uk editorial team
North Yorkshire library service has launched a free business book collection aimed at people starting a company, running a small firm or looking for practical growth advice.
The collection is available through libraries across North Yorkshire and can be reserved by library members at a local branch, through the libraries app or on the council website. The launch was marked in Harrogate at The Sky’s the Limit business event, where local women in business shared experience on leadership and professional growth.
Free books for new and growing businesses
The new collection has been put together by the county’s library service with North Yorkshire Council’s economic development team. It is designed for readers at different stages, from early start-up planning to small business growth.
The offer is not limited to people who already run a company. It is also aimed at residents testing an idea, researching a sector or looking for confidence before taking a first step.
Councillor Simon Myers, executive member for arts and culture, said the books are intended to give start-ups and small businesses practical ideas. He also pointed to the wider role of libraries, including free Wi-Fi, access to computers, printing, scanning and photocopying.
How to reserve the business books
Library members can reserve titles free of charge through their local library, the libraries app or the council’s online library service.
People who need help using digital services can ask about volunteer IT buddy support in libraries. That may be useful for residents who want to search the catalogue, use online databases or access business information but are not confident with technology.
The library service also gives members access to Complete Business Reference Advisor, an online database with start-up guides and ideas covering more than 350 types of businesses. The database includes market and sector guides, local business support information, and guidance on rules and regulations.
Harrogate launch links books with business experience
The launch was tied to The Sky’s the Limit – Breaking Through the Glass Ceiling event in Harrogate last week. The event featured 12 local women in business discussing professional success and leadership.
Georgia Eckert, owner and founder of Imagined Things Bookshop in Harrogate, said books had been an important source of knowledge and encouragement before she opened her shop nine years ago.
She said the collection could help people in the early planning stages by giving them ideas, practical knowledge and examples from people who have already built businesses.
Free business advice is also available
Business North Yorkshire, part of the council’s economy and tourism team, provides free and impartial support for local businesses. Its advisers work with people at different stages, from first ideas to established firms looking to grow.
Residents can use the library offer alongside that adviser support if they need both research materials and practical guidance on next steps.
Source: North Yorkshire Council
Source check Source trail
This guide is based on North Yorkshire Council’s published notice about the library business book collection and related support.
- Confirmed the service is available through libraries across North Yorkshire.
- Checked that reservations are described as free for library members.
- Verified the launch context at The Sky’s the Limit event in Harrogate.
- Separated library resources from Business North Yorkshire adviser support.
- Source
- North Yorkshire Council
- Scope
- North Yorkshire
- Updated
- 2026-05-27 19:22
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