Resources

In the Business and IP Centre you can find a range of resources and information to help you start and run your business. This includes the Economist, Investors Chronicle and the Financial Times, and publications on topics from startsups to dealing with HR issues. There are copies of the British Library’s Industry Information Guides and factsheets from the Intellectual Property Office.

The Business and IP Centre also offers a range of FREE online resources to support businesses. Some of the resources can be accessed from home or from the work place with your library card and others are available through public computers in Exeter Library.

COBRA (Complete Online Business Reference Adviser)

COBRA is an online business information resource that contains over a thousand small business factsheets, guides and sector-specific reports. Available from any Libraries Unlimited library and to registered library members at home. Access COBRA here>

IBISWorld

IBISWorld is an online market research tool, providing comprehensive, independent and current market research. A team of expert analysts research economic, demographic and government data, to provide insights into UK industries and their key business environment indicators, so you can make better business decisions, faster.

IBISWorld is available at Exeter and Barnstaple libraries and can be accessed from the public computers, or on your own device via our free wi-fi. Access IBISWorld here>

MINTEL

Mintel provide a range of market reports for UK, across a number of industries. Mintel provides UK Market Data Reports and in-depth UK Consumer Market Research. Exeter Library subscribes to reports in relation to the food sector. These can be accessed from the public computers and on your own device via the free Exeter Library Wi-Fi. Access Mintel here>

FabLab Devon

Situated in both Exeter Library and Barnstaple Library, FabLab Devon is an open-source, not-for-profit, community resource for digital making and prototyping with the following machines: 3D printers, laser cutter, CNC milling machine, vinyl cutter, digital embroidery machine, hot press, dye sublimation and A1 printer. Visit the website for information about access and activities.

Exeter Library

Exeter Library offers free desk space, free wifi and a cafe .

There are two meeting rooms and a rondel in Exeter Library which can be booked. The meeting rooms range in size with capacity for 6 to 80 people, with catering available on request.

To see a full list of events that are taking place at Exeter Library, please visit their Events page.

Barnstaple Library

Here you can access pcs, scanners and printers, free wifi and desk space.

There are five meeting rooms available, accommodating up to 70 people, which can be booked. The meeting rooms have access to Wi-Fi, power points, screens and projectors, plus a range of other amenities are available on request. Each room has access to a kitchenette or drink making facilities or alternatively outside caterers are welcome.

Please visit their Events page to see a full list of activities that take place at Barnstaple Library.

Starting a Business

Organisation

Gov.uk

HMRC

Princes Trust

New Enterprise Allowance

GAIN

Local business support

Organisation

Heart of the South West Business Support

South West Investment Group