Libraries help the Devon economy
Libraries have a role in helping new and small businesses grow, says Dr Stephen Fear, Entrepreneur in Residence and Ambassador at The British Library.
Dr Fear was speaking in Exeter to business leaders at a briefing by Devon County Council, hosted by Ashfords, about a new resource within Exeter's Central Library that will give businesses access to high quality business and 'Intellectual Property' (IP) information.
The multi-million pound redeveloped Central Library, on track to open next summer, will include a dedicated entreprise support service, funded through the Enterprising Libraries programme.
The programme, funded and supported by The British Library, Arts Council England and Department for Communities and Local Government, helps libraries develop new, innovative ways to support economic growth within communities.
The enterprise support service will provide access to a wide range of resources including national collections, databases and publications to help library users with trademarks, patents, registered designs, copyright and other Intellectual Property queries.
The service is the latest in Devon libraries' support to new businesses.
Similar to the libraries' Free Fridays, which give visitors free internet access and ICT and employment advice to job seekers, Devon's libraries are developing a new service that will offer basic advice to help get new businesses off the ground.
Guest speaker Dr Stephen Fear told delegates:
"The incredibly important role of libraries in nurturing new and small businesses should not be overlooked. This is a great opportunity to make support and Intellectual Property resources available to all in the centre of Exeter, to help grow the next generation of successful entrepreneurs."
Mark Lomas, Chairman and Head of Intellectual Property Law at Ashfords Solicitors, said:
“It is critical that any new business gets the right information and advice around IP at an early stage. It can save cost, reduce risk and build up value in a business quickly. This new facility will both raise awareness of the issue and provide much-needed practical information and resources, which can only help the growth agenda in Exeter and the wider area.”
Cllr Roger Croad, Devon County Council's Cabinet Member with responsibility for the library service said:
"With the support of funding from the Arts Council and DCLG, together with support from the British Library and from many local partners, this project offers a real opportunity to harness the expertise and resources of our Library Service to help local businesses grow and flourish.
"The dedicated business support, with investment in IP resources, and by working with our partners, I am confident that this will provide an invaluable resource for the business community in Exeter and further afield."
Plans for the new library will also include increased space for children and a new café, as well as a new entrance area, revamped meeting and peformance spaces and improved areas for learning and study.
An additional entrance to the library from Rougemont Gardens will also be created so the library has better connections with the city’s Cultural Quarter with the Museum, Phoenix Arts Centre and Exeter Castle.
