START A NEW BUSINESS

Some news reports show that our economy is beginning to improve.  Are you ready to start your own business?  This might be a good time to do that, but it's very important to be well-informed in order to become a successful business owner.
Here are some questions you might ask:

• How do I set up a business in South Carolina?
• Is there a need for my business?
• How do I file taxes as a self-employed person?
• Do I need insurance?
• How do I get financing or a small business loan?
• How do I find customers?
• How do I set up a business website?
• How do I advertise?

The Charleston County Public Library system has resources to help you learn how to start a business.  We have many, many books on starting a business. Let's start with three books that will help you.

Legal Guide for starting & running a Small Business by Fred Steingold 
This book is an invaluable guide covering everything from raising money to obtaining licenses and permits.
 Steingold has also written Legal Forms for starting & running a Small Business.  This book is available in the Reference section at Mt. Pleasant Library.

 

 

 





 

The one-hour business plan:the simple and practical way to start anything new by John McAdam 

As of this date the title is on order but should be available soon.  You will find the following information:

Introduction -- Module 1: create a value proposition that makes a stronger business model -- Module 2: who are you offering to? -- Module 3: viewing your offering through your customers' eyes -- Module 4: what milestones & actions plans do for your business.



 

 

Another resource is the Small Business Administration .  There are tutorials and links to important information on starting a business.  The website is www.sba.gov.



The Main Library at 68 Calhoun Street, Charleston, has a business librarian, Amanda Holling, who has special training in helping patrons locate what they need for starting a business. 

Another resource is SCORE which offers free counseling for prospective entrepreneurs. Their mentors offer counseling at their Mt. Pleasant office the 1st and 3rd Tuesday 10:00 am-2:00pm.  The telephone number is 843-343-9276.  The address is 100 Ann Edwards Lane.  Visit their website at www.score285.org They are also at the Main Library the2nd and 4th Wednesday. 

Stop by the Mt. Pleasant Library reference desk and we'll be happy to help you find the information you need to start your own business.

Thanks for reading.