The Haldimand County Public Library offers local entrepreneurs an array of collections and resources to help businesses succeed. Librarians can connect you to the print and electronic information you need to get your business off the ground or to get ahead in today’s economy.

Business Books

Hundreds of titles are available on business topics including financing, grants and subsidies, franchising, business planning, marketing, advertising, sales, web site development, project management, personnel, accounting, interviewing and hiring strategies, leadership and team building.

Search the library’s online catalogue for print materials or download ebook titles from OverDrive or CloudLibrary.

Business Courses

Gale Courses is an online learning service, offering you the chance to learn new skills through highly interactive, flexible, instructor-led courses. All you need is an Internet connection and a library card to register for free, six-week sessions and start your learning experiences. Gain computer competencies through courses on Windows, MS Office, web page design, programming, Cloud basics, WordPress, Photoshop and more. Or take advantage of dozens of business courses ranging from customer service to purchasing fundamentals.

Gale Courses Guide

Service Ontario Services to Business Guide

The Services to Business Guide was prepared by the library in cooperation with ServiceOntario. It offers valuable links to online and print business resources as well as government and community business centres. Key government services to business are indicated with additional business resources also provided to help you better understand everything needed to start a new business.

Services to Business Guide

Federal Government Services for Small Business

Get tools and information on what to consider before starting a business. Get information to help you identify opportunities to grow your business. Learn how to fuel your R&D and innovation projects through government grants, contributions and loans, as well as private sector financing. Learn about programs and services available in your region to help your business succeed.  Find out more about the municipal, provincial, territorial and federal permits, licences and regulations that apply to your business.  Learn how to handle day-to-day operations, including budgeting, marketing and payroll deductions and more. Overview of federal government Services for Small Business

Canada Small Business Financing Program

The Canada Small Business Financing Program makes it easier for small businesses to get loans from financial institutions by sharing the risk with lenders.  Up to a maximum of $1,000,000 for any one borrower, of which no more than $350,000 can be used for purchasing leasehold improvements or improving leased property and purchasing or improving new or used equipment. Financial institutions deliver the program and are solely responsible for approving the loan. For more information download their PDF pamphlet or click here to find a lender near you.

Government of Canada Business Benefits Finder

The Government of Canada has introduced many COVID-19 supports to help businesses weather the storm. To get a tailored list of the ones that fit your business situation or to discover other federal, provincial and territorial programs and services designed to help Canadian businesses grow, try the interactive business benefits finder. You can also sign up for the notification feature to receive emails when there are changes to your favourite programs, when application deadlines are approaching, or when a new program that meets your needs is introduced.

Meeting Rooms

Library meeting rooms are the perfect venue for your business meetings and events. Meeting rooms are available for rental at the Caledonia, Dunnville, Jarvis and Hagersville branches.

Rental Rate: 30 dollars per hour, minimum 60 dollar charge.

LCD projectors with laptops may be borrowed for presentations. Housed at the Dunnville and Caledonia branches, this equipment can be made available in Jarvis and Hagersville upon request.