Tuesday, August 26, 2008

August Business at Lake County Public Library

THE BUSINESS PLAN

Whether your business is already established or you’re in the process of putting one together, chances are good that at some point you’re going to have to create a business plan. It can be your biggest asset, forcing you to see your business in new ways in order to capitalize on your strengths or correct your weaknesses. These sources can aid you in that process.

Start and Run Series. Self-Counsel Press. These books are about writing business plans for specific kinds of businesses and they are easy to use. Just type start and run using the title keyword search on the Library Catalog.

658.4012 BANG
Business Plans Made Easy by David H. Bangs Jr.

658.84 BURN

Entrepreneurship.com by Tim Burns

658.800285 ROBE
E-Strategy Pure & Simple: Connecting Your Internet Strategy to Your Business Strategy by Michel Robert

658.115224 MCKE
How to Write a Business Plan by Mike P. McKeever

658.1141 PAKR
The Small Business Start-Up Kit by Peri Pakroo

658.111 PINS
Steps to Small Business Start-Up: Everything You Need To Know To Turn Your Idea into A Successful Business by Linda Pinson



WEBSITES
U.S. Small Business Administration

http://www.sba.gov
Online Women’s Business Center
http://www.onlinewbc.gov/
Small Business Development Centers
http://www.sba.gov/aboutsba/sbaprograms/sbdc/index.html


If you have other topics that you would like to have more information about, please contact the library at 219-769-3541 or use our online Ask a Librarian service.

See more information about the Lake County (IN) Public Library & its services to business at
http://www.lcplin.org/research/businesslines.htm

Thursday, June 12, 2008

Business News at Lake County Public Library

"Information is the manager's main tool." - Peter Drucker
Business information is ever changing and often many-faceted. To help you, Reference Services, has a staff of twelve professional information specialists providing the following services:
  • Answering your questions - in person, by telephone, or by e-mail
  • Providing our Catalog and "Ask a Librarian" service on the web at www.lakeco.lib.in.us
  • Offering individual or group training on our business databases
  • Giving presentations at local Chamber of Commerce and Rotary Club meetings

Lake County Public Library makes the following resources available to you and your employees:

  • Annual Reports
  • Business DVD's and CD-ROM's (AV Department)
  • Books
  • Business Magazines, Newspapers (Periodicals Department)
  • Databases of Business Information ($ales and Number of Employees, etc.)
  • Directories
  • Internet

Over the summer Business Lines will be highlighting booklists on the following subjects:

  • Basic Business Sources
  • Advertising & Public Relations
  • The Business Plan
  • Finding Information on Companies
  • Marketing & Sales
  • Raising Money for Your Small Busines

If you have other topics that you would like to have more information about, please contact the library at 219-769-3541 or use our online Ask a Librarian service.

See more information about the Lake County (IN) Public Library & its services to business at http://www.lcplin.org/research/businesslines.htm

Thursday, May 08, 2008

May Business at Lake County Public Library

WEBSITE OF THE MONTH: Indiana BusinessBuilder.net

Welcome to Indiana Business Builder! Indiana Business Builder is a service of INCOLSA (Indiana Cooperative Library Services Authority).

If you are starting a new business or expanding an existing business, this website is for you. There are links for entrepreneurs, online continuing education courses, prospect research, and business overviews.

Business Builder Features:
Reference USA. The Reference USA Business databases contain detailed information on more than 12 million U.S. businesses. Details include sales figures, executive names and number of employees. Searches can be performed using these categories and more.

Click on the Reference USA icon and you will be directed to a list of libraries subscribing to this database. Select Lake County Public Library from the list and begin your search.

ed2go. Instructor facilitated online learning courses in accounting, sales, and marketing. Click on the ed2go icon and learn more.


NEW BOOKS*

Predictably Irrational: The Hidden Forces That Shape Our Decisions - by Dan Ariely
330 ARIE
Ever walked by something and instantly known you had to have it--even though you'd never thought about it before? Ever wonder why something free is so hard to pass up, even if you don't need it? You wouldn't steal money, but have you taken home office supplies from your job? It's these sorts of "irrational" behaviors that author Dan Ariely assesses in Predictably Irrational. By looking at behavioral economics, Ariely explains why we spend our money the way we do, based on "guidelines" that others have set. It's a "fascinating, eye-opening read" (Publishers Weekly).


The Middle-Class Millionaire: The Rise of the New Rich and How They Are Changing America by Russ Alan Prince and Lewis Schiff
305.5234 PRIN
Wealth experts Russ Alan Prince and Lewis Schiff consider "middle-class millionaires" to be those households who have earned rather than inherited their money--and who are worth between one and ten million dollars (for a look at the super-rich, try Robert Frank's Richistan). Their book assesses the influence of these working rich and their attitudes on the U.S. economy as well as on its society, institutions, and values. If you're curious about this segment of the population--they drive much of consumer spending--check out The Middle-Class Millionaire to learn more.


The Wall Street Journal Complete Identity Theft Guidebook: How to Protect Yourself from the Most Pervasive Crime in America - by Terri Cullen
362.88 CULL
According to personal finance columnist Terri Cullen, the average identity-theft victim will have to spend 600 hours clearing his or her name. To avoid having to take on that task, Cullen uses the first part of her book to explain the various types of identity theft and to share how you can best prevent it happening to you. The second part describes what to do if your identity is stolen. She also discusses the use of credit reports, encryption, and computer software, and analyzes the laws that protect the victim. Booklist says that this is "a straightforward guide broken up with interesting sidebars and plenty of charts."

*Titles and descriptions are from NEXT READS' April Business & Personal Finance Newsletter. If you haven't signed up for this email newsletter service, do so today. Log on to the library's website http://www.lcplin.org/ and click on the NextReads icon.



See more information about the Lake County (IN) Public Library & its services to business at http://www.lcplin.org/research/businesslines.htm

Wednesday, April 02, 2008

April Business at Lake County Public Library


DATABASE OF THE MONTH: Reference USA

The Reference USA Business databases contain detailed information on more than 12 million U.S. businesses. Details include sales figures, executive names and number of employees. Searches can be performed using these categories and more. Reference USA Residential information covers 102 million U.S. residents and is compiled from more than 3,900 White Page telephone directories.

Visit the library today to find out more about this unique marketing tool.


COMMUNITY OUTREACH: SPRING EXPO 2008



Merrillville's 2008 Chamber of Commerce Spring Expo - Lake County Public Library's display board highlights business databases, such as Reference USA.



Over 125 "I Love My Library" bags were handed out to attendees - along with information on the business resources that are available at the Lake County Public Library.


See more information about the Lake County (IN) Public Library & its services to business at http://www.lcplin.org/research/businesslines.htm


Friday, February 29, 2008

March Business at Lake County Public Library

DATABASE OF THE MONTH: Hoover's Online

Hoover's Online is a database of 12 million companies with in-depth coverage of 40,000 of the world's top businesses. Use this source to uncover basic company information, investment figures and background on companies and their competition.

Available in all branches of the Lake County Public Library as well as remotely. To access Hoover's from your office or home you will need a Lake County Public Library Card and a four-digit pin number. Call the library today for more information.


NEW BOOKS*

Jim Cramer's Stay Mad for Life: Get Rich, Stay Rich (Make Your Kids Even Richer) James J. Cramer with Cliff Mason
332.89 CRAM


Jim Cramer is known for his outrageous antics (and investing advice) on CNBC's Mad Money; in Stay Mad for Life he outlines a comprehensive financial program for individuals at--you guessed it--every stage of life. Rather than focusing solely on selecting stocks, Cramer's newest book deals with personal finance issues like getting out of credit card debt, planning for retirement, and creating a budget. He then goes on to share his rules of investing and preferred market sectors and stocks, and outlines a guide to mutual funds. If you're a fan of his show but are looking for a more basic guide to finance, this will be a good choice.


The Girl's Guide to Kicking Your Career Into Gear: Valuable Lessons, True Stories, and Tips for Using What You've Got (a Brain!) to Make Your Worklife Work for You Caitlin Friedman and Kimberly Yorio
331.702082 FRIE

Chock full of advice, inspiration, strategies, and guidelines on how women can--and should--take charge of every aspect of their careers, this guide is appropriate for women on any rung of the career ladder. Tips focus on such challenges as how to diffuse conflict, manage personal issues, and highlight one's accomplishments. Authors Caitlin Friedman and Kimberly Yorio (authors of The Girl's Guide to Being a Boss (Without Being a Bitch)) are known for their down-to-earth manner and upbeat attitude; Publishers Weekly says that this book "should win them readers seeking a can-do kick in the pants."

How Toyota Became #1: Leadership Lessons from the World's Greatest Car Company David Magee
658.4092 MAGE

Toyota, which started as a family-run loom business, has become a huge success in an industry beset by financial troubles. In How Toyota Became #1, journalist and author David Magee shows how Toyota's commitment to excellence and dedication to its customers and employees has led to its competitive advantage and healthy bottom line. Check out Magee's book for an excellent introduction to and explanation of the principles behind Toyota's success.

*Titles and descriptions are from NEXT READS' February Business & Personal Finance Newsletter. If you haven't signed up for this email newsletter service, do so today. Log on to the library's website http://www.lcplin.org/ and click on the NextReads icon.


See more information about the Lake County (IN) Public Library & its services to business at http://www.lcplin.org/research/businesslines.htm

Wednesday, January 30, 2008

February Business at Lake County Public Library


USEFUL BUSINESS DATABASES

Business and Company Resource Center

Business & Company Resource Center brings together in a single database company profiles, company brand information, rankings, investment reports, company histories, chronologies, and periodicals. Search this database to find detailed company and industry news and information.

This database is available to all Lake County Public Library cardholders. Login with your card number and pin from any Internet connection.

Call the library (219-769-3541) to schedule an appointment for tips on using this comprehensive database.



NEW DVD TITLES

INVESTING & WEALTH MANAGEMENT
DVD 332.6 INVE c. 2006 6 discs
Ever wished you could take time away from scratching out a living to attend the in-person seminars led by the nation’s top investment gurus and financial speakers? This series of program will provide access to seven of today’s most influential wealth coaches. Among the presenters on this 6 disc set are Robert Helms, Jim Rohn, Brian Tracy, Robert Allen, Bob Proctor and Toni Turner.

SALES SUCCESS

DVD 658.85 SALE c. 2006 6 discs
Sales Success on DVD presents six of today’s most respected sales motivators. From vocal signals to vocabulary; connecting to closing, the Sales Success program offers hours of inspiration and practical tips to power-up your influence while building and expanding client relationships. Imagine having a private audience with America’s premier sales consultants! Presenters include Georgre Walther, Dr. Tony Alessandra, Zig Ziglar, Tom Hopkins, Jim Cathcart and Nido Qubein.

LEADERSHIP
DVD 658.4 LEAD c. 2006 6 discs
This program offers practical information from some of the most influential success coaches-the ones in demand by Fortune 500 companies the world over. Covering issues from time management to teamwork, these programs offer tips to inspire and motivate you in the workplace and beyond. The speakers for these programs include: Chris Widener, Dr. Sheila Murray Bethel, Brad Worthley, Laura Stack, Bryan Dodge, and Zig Ziglar.



RECOMMENDED BUSINESS NEWS SOURCES

Barron's - indispensible business and financial weekly - articles on current developments in economics, finance, and politics as related to business and a large statistical section covering stock and bond quotations. Includes some insider transactions and current material from corporate reports.

Crain's Chicago Business - newspaper format covers all phases of Chicago's business, including articles, directories, and statistics.

Business 2.0 - monthly magazine covers business with a modern edge: internet and emerging industries are emphasized.



See more information about the Lake County (IN) Public Library & its services to business at
http://www.lcplin.org/research/businesslines.htm

Wednesday, December 26, 2007

January Business at Lake County Public Library

USEFUL BUSINESS WEBSITES

INDIANA ECONOMIC DIGEST - http://www.indianaeconomicdigest.net/
Daily News on Business and Economic Events throughout Indiana

The Digest culls daily news from newspapers around the state and focuses on topics about development-life sciences, expansions and closings, education, taxes and more. This service is made possible by a partnership of the Realtors of Indiana, the Hoosier State Press Association, and the Indiana Business Research Center.

A sampling of December 26, 2007 Indiana articles:
  • Ideas to fix tax system divergent
  • Downtown Columbus mall partially coming down, to be replaced in two years
  • Indiana on wild's side
  • Porter County Commissioner: South Shore rail expansion not worth it
Website also features daily New York Times Headlines. Check out this useful website and you'll return daily for news updates.


NEW DVD TITLES at the Lake County Public Library

Ever wished you had the time for a one-on-one, in person seminar led by a world authority on real estate prosperity? With REAL ESTATE INVESTOR’S COLLEGE on DVD, property investment guru Dolf de Roos demonstrates field-tested strategies and insider techniques designed for novice and seasoned real estate investors alike. This 6 disc set offers an in-depth compendium of how-to tips for creating and perpetuating property income, then allows you to sit in on a series of international question-and-answer sessions featuring specific real estate queries from program participants.

Disc One:
Real Estate Riches


Disc Two:
Discussions with Dolf-The Caribbean

Disc Three:
Discussions with Dolf: Santa Monica/Las Vegas/Cape Coral

Disc Four:
Discussions with Dolf: New York/San Diego/San Francisco

Disc Five:
Discussions with Dolf: New Zealand/Napa Valley

Disc Six:
Discussions with Dolf: Squaw Peak/Minnesota/Seattle


To reserve these titles, contact the Lake County Public Library at 219-769-3541 today.



See more information about the Lake County (IN) Public Library & its services to business at http://www.lcplin.org/research/businesslines.htm



Friday, November 23, 2007

December Business at Lake County Public Library

USEFUL BUSINESS WEBSITES

Better Business Bureau - http://www.neindiana.bbb.org/

The BBB serves the 23 northern counties of Indiana with offices in Fort Wayne, Osceola and Merrillville. Find the information you're looking for whether you are a consumer or a business. It is easy to check a business or charity for its accreditation or any filed complaints using this website.

The online News Center offers timely news, such as the 11/19/2007 posting: "Play It Safe Over the Holidays."


NEW BOOKS*

All the Money in the World: How the Forbes 400 Make--and Spend--Their Fortunes
Peter W. Bernstein and Annalyn Swan, Editors
(On Order)

Since 1982, Forbes magazine has compiled an annual list of the 400 wealthiest Americans, ranked by net worth. In All the Money in the World, authors Bernstein and Swan profile these wealthy Americans and reveal how they made their fortunes and saved, enhanced, and occasionally squandered their wealth. Though familiar names like Donald Trump and Warren Buffet appear, so too do plenty of fascinating and unfamiliar ones. There's plenty here that will appeal to business historians as well as those who just want to know how the super-wealthy achieved such success.


Basic Black: The Essential Guide for Getting Ahead at Work (and in Life)
Cathie Black
(On Order)

Cathie Black, now president of Hearst Magazines, was one of the first women to climb the ranks in American newspaper and magazine publishing--she was also the first female publisher of a weekly magazine (New York), and she convinced Oprah to create O, The Oprah Magazine. In Basic Black, she shares her experiences and accomplishments on the road to success, and inserts valuable lessons on everything from self-confidence to how to recognize (and seize) opportunity. Those interested in the publishing industry or the role of women in business will find much to like in this close-up view of a groundbreaking career.


The Lies about Money: Achieving Financial Security and True Wealth by Avoiding the Lies Others Tell Us--and the Lies We Tell Ourselves
Ric Edelman
332.6 EDEL

Financial expert Ric Edelman has been writing about investing for many years; in The Lies about Money, he identifies misleading aspects of popular investment practices and offers advice on how to achieve long-term goals. For the most part, he sticks to exposing the dangers of the retail mutual fund industry, but he also peppers this guide with the basic concepts of portfolio management and saving for college or retirement. Publishers Weekly praises Edelman's latest, citing its "clear writing and helpful advice."


The Age of Turbulence: Adventures in a New World
Alan Greenspan
332.11092 GREE

Alan Greenspan spent nearly 19 years as chairman of the U.S. Federal Reserve, presiding over the stock market crash of October 1987, the aftermath of 9/11, and the advent of new technologies that changed the way business is done around the world. These professional achievements, as well as recollections from his childhood, figure in The Age of Turbulence, though Greenspan also delves into economic issues such as income inequality and globalization. Part memoir and part monetary policy, The Age of Turbulence is also "surprisingly frank" (The New York Times).

*Titles and descriptions are from NEXT READS' December Business & Personal Finance Newsletter. If you haven't signed up for this email newsletter service, do so today. Log on to the library's website http://www.lakeco.lib.in.us/ and click on the NextReads icon.


See more information about the Lake County (IN) Public Library & its services to business at http://www.lcplin.org/research/businesslines.htm



Tuesday, October 30, 2007

November Business News at Lake County Public Library

USEFUL ONLINE PUBLICATION - INcontext

INcontext is a publication of the Indiana Business Research Center at Indiana University's Kelley School of Business and receives major support from the State of Indiana (administered by the Indiana Department of Workforce Development) and from the Lilly Endowment, Inc.

You can read this publication online or download a pdf version from a link on the website. Timely articles fill the monthly issues, such as "Offshoring and Near-Shoring: Movement of Work Studies," "Beyond the Front Desk of the Hospitality Industry," and "Monthly Metrics: Indiana's Economic Dashboard."

This website spotlights Census 2010, monthy unemployment statistics, a county profile map, and Quick Links to STATS Indiana, Indiana Business Research Center, Indiana Economic Digest, Access Indiana and more.

Add this website to your Favorites: http://www.incontext.indiana.edu/


NEW BOOKS

The Elephant and the Dragon: The Rise of India and China
and What It Means For All of Us
Robyn Meredith
330.951 MERE
In The Elephant and the Dragon, Forbes magazine journalist Robyn Meredith examines the rise of China and India as emerging international economic powers. In addition, Meredith discusses what America ("buyer to the world") needs to know about the economic strategies of China ("factory to the world") and India ("back office to the world") in order to compete in the global marketplace. She closes this "thought-provoking and well-researched book" (Booklist) with recommendations for the U.S., which include strengthening the educational system and fostering innovation.


Deluxe: How Luxury Lost Its Luster
Dana Thomas
338.47 THOM
Luxury goods were once only available to the truly wealthy, who bought both exquisite craftsmanship and the cachet of owning an exclusive item when they made their purchases. Now, Newsweek and Harper's Bazaar journalist Dana Thomas documents how luxury goods--and their availability--have been both transformed and transforming. In the change from limited distribution by quality-minded family businesses to mass production by profit-minded big corporations, quality has fallen by the wayside and the purpose of consumption has changed. Curious? Look no further than Deluxe, which is "as entertaining as it is informative" (The New York Times Book Review).


Back on the Career Track: A Guide for Stay-at-Home Moms Who Want to Return to Work
Carol Fishman Cohen and Vivian Steir Rabin
650.14085 COHE
This step-by-step reference for stay-at-home moms offers advice on reentering the workforce as well as an exploration of the trade-offs that working moms might face. Along with sample resumés and a list of other resources, Back on the Career Track also discusses career options after time away from the working world and shares tips on self-marketing and reintegrating with formerly junior co-workers. As Business Week puts it, "For those who say you can't go back, this book is the definitive rebuttal."

See more information about the Lake County (IN) Public Library & its services to business at http://www.lcplin.org/research/businesslines.htm






Wednesday, August 29, 2007

September - October Business at Lake County Public Library


USEFUL BUSINESS WEBSITES



http://www.ibrc.indiana.edu/

The Indiana Business Research Center is an extensive resource for data and analysis of economic and demographic information needed by business, government and nonprofit organizations in Indiana and throughout the nation.

Some of the most requested services:

Benchmarking local and regional economies
Business retention and expansion studies
Census 2000 custom aggregations or research
Customized data aggregations
Demographic analysis
Economic impact studies
GIS and mapping
Government efficiency analysis
Population and workforce analytics
Survey research
Targeted industry and cluster analysis
Training — Building databases, using census data, research and more

If you have particular research needs or questions, you may contact the Center:

Indiana Business Research Center
ibrc@iupui.edu
812.855.5507 or 317.274.2979


NEW BOOKS

The Last Chance Millionaire: It’s Not Too Late to Become Wealthy
Douglas R. Andrew
332.02401 ANDR

If you're nearing retirement and are worried that you don't have enough saved, this financial planning guide for baby boomers outlines non-traditional options for securing a financially solvent retirement--regardless of age, income, or current assets. According to financial adviser Douglas Andrew, many age-old beliefs about saving money are out of date, but he's got three "miracles of wealth accumulation" he'd like to share so that you, too, can be comfortable in retirement.


The Last Tycoons: The Secret History of Lazard Freres & Co.
William D. Cohan
332.660944 COHA

Founded in 1848 as a dry-goods business in New Orleans, Lazard Frères is now a giant among Wall Street firms (in 2006, BusinessWeek called Lazard the "granddaddy of M&A"). Author William Cohan, himself a former high-level Wall Street banker, explores the mysterious and secretive world of this profitable investment firm and in so doing presents a compelling portrait of the company, biographies of its most influential men, and "an exciting insider's account of Wall Street infighting" (Publishers Weekly).


Guerrilla Marketing: Easy and Inexpensive Strategies for Making Big Profits from Your Small Business
Jay Conrad Levinson
658.8 LEVI

If you've got something to promote but don't have a huge budget, chances are you're going to turn to guerrilla marketing tactics whether you know it or not. To learn more about using low-budget, unconventional promotional activities, you might want to turn to this expanded and updated edition of the revolutionary marketing classic by Jay Levinson. The many topics it covers include identifying the fastest growing markets, discussing recession strategies, and describing modern consumers. There are even new sections on Internet marketing, the use of new technologies, and cultivating repeat and referral business.


See more information about the Lake County (IN) Public Library & its services to business at http://www.lakeco.lib.in.us/businesslines.htm

Tuesday, July 10, 2007

July - August Business at Lake County Public Library

USEFUL BUSINESS WEBSITES

Indiana Economic Development Corporation - www.in.gov/iedc
IEDC is the State of Indiana’s lead economic development agency. It was officially established in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce. Use this site as a guide for starting a new business or expanding or relocating an existing business. It provides links to licenses, permits and regulatory assistance.


NEW BUSINESS DVD TITLES

The Four Factors of Effective Leadership
80 minutes
David J. Rendall leads this live seminar to help viewers create meaningful and productive relationships. Rendall is an international speaker, author and consultant.

The Employee’s Guide to Superior Customer Service
18 minutes
John Herrick has 31 years experience in sales and retail and is recognized as one of the best in his field. Mr. Herrick demonstrates the right ways to serve your customers using actual business settings.

The 8th Habit: From Effectiveness to Greatness
48 minutes
Dr. Stephen R. Covey is one of the most respected gurus of leadership. In this program he adds the 8th key to his 7 habits of effective leaders.

Mastering the Art of Selling
48 minutes
Whether you want to sell homes, cars, financial services or an idea to your family or friends, following these practical, useful tips developed by sales legend Tom Hopkins will help you "close" the sale easily and professionally.


NEW BUSINESS BOOK TITLES

You, Inc.: The Art of Selling Yourself
Harry Beckwith and Christine Clifford Beckwith
658.85 BECK

Whether you're looking to influence prospective clients or to impress a potential employer, the one thing you have to do in order to achieve success is to communicate effectively. Blending humor with practical advice, bestselling author Harry Beckwith and sales superstar Christine Beckwith will teach you how to do just that. From effective communication strategies to short lessons on the importance of first impressions and creating rapport, You, Inc. is a "refreshing career primer" (Publishers Weekly) appropriate for old hands and new grads alike.


Talent is Never Enough: No Matter How Gifted You Are, These 13 Choices Will Make You Better
John C. Maxwell

Leadership expert John C. Maxwell believes that to achieve your goals and attain success, talent alone is not enough (or, as he puts it, talent is "often overrated and frequently misunderstood"). There are several factors, however, that can enhance talent--these include initiative, focus, preparation, and teamwork. Using anecdotes from the lives of such varied people as athletes, business leaders, and writers, Maxwell makes "Talent-plus" a description anyone can achieve.

Where Have All the Leaders Gone?
Lee Iacocca with Catherine Whitney
303.34 IACO

At 82, former Chrysler Corporation CEO Lee Iacocca has lived through the Great Depression, World War II, and the oil crises of the 1970s--it should come as no surprise that he's got some strong words for America's government and business leaders. Tackling everything from health care and the current crop of presidential hopefuls to energy policies and (of course) the auto industry, Iacocca is an engaging straight-talker--and he's even got a few suggestions. If you, too, are wondering where all the leaders went, you'll want to pick up this thought-provoking book.

See more information about the Lake County (IN) Public Library & its services to business at
http://www.lcplin.org/research/businesslines.htm

Friday, April 27, 2007

May - June Business at Lake County Public Library



NextReads is a new service offered by the Lake County Public Library. Sign up to receive reading recommendations via email! There are 22 different categories and Business Lines is highlighting the Business & Personal Finance newsletter.


After you subscribe, you will receive a confirmation email and the current issue of the newsletter(s) you select. Newsletters will be delivered to your e-mail box monthly or bi-monthly depending on the category selected.

Sample titles from the latest newsletter:


The Definitive Drucker: The Final Word from the Father of Modern Management - by Elizabeth Haas Edersheim
Publisher: McGraw-Hill
Pub Date: 12/01/2006
ISBN: 0071472339

Peter F. Drucker, one of the 20th century's foremost business and management theoreticians, had nearly 40 books to his name when he passed away in 2005. For The Definitive Drucker, business writer Elizabeth Edersheim was able to interview him many times, but she also spoke with dozens of highly placed managers who are also Drucker devotees, such as Jack Welch and Procter & Gamble CEO A.G. Lafley. For an exploration of Drucker's ideas and to see how they are played out in the modern business world, you'll want to check out The Definitive Drucker.



Made to Stick: Why Some Ideas Survive and Others Die - by Chip Heath & Dan Heath Publisher: Random House
Pub Date: 01/16/2007
ISBN: 1400064287

If you enjoyed Malcolm Gladwell's The Tipping Point, you're sure to appreciate Made to Stick, an "entertaining, practical guide to communication" (Publishers Weekly) by the Heath brothers (one's a business professor, the other a teacher). Curious about why some messages "stick" (Wendy's "Where's the Beef" commercials) and others don't? Then read about the six key principles that build stickiness and discover how to incorporate those six factors into a creative thought process. You won't want to waste any time in picking up Made to Stick!



How She Does It: How Women Entrepreneurs Are Changing the Rules of Business Success - by Margaret Heffernan
Publisher: Viking
Pub Date: 01/18/2007
ISBN: 0670038237

According to former CEO Margaret Heffernan, women-run companies are more likely to stay in business, grow faster, and show profits sooner than the average American firm. Why is that? Heffernan interviewed hundreds of women business owners to find out--and she discovered that the work-related talents that the women felt had not been supported in male-dominated corporate America were actually highly beneficial to a successful entrepreneur. While not a how-to, this is certainly an important book for all women looking to run their own companies.



Women & Money: Owning the Power to Control Your Destiny - by Suze Orman
Publisher: Spiegel & Grau
Pub Date: 02/27/2007
ISBN: 0385519311

Calling all women who want more control over their personal finances! In her latest book, money master Suze Orman explores the complex relationship between women and their finances. More than just a laundry list of suggestions to get you started, Women & Money offers a streamlined five-month plan that, by its end, will have you saving and ready to invest. If you want to learn more about managing your money, if you don't have a clue where to start, or even if you're afraid to look at your monthly bills, check out Women & Money and get started on the road to controlling your finances.


See more information about the Lake County (IN) Public Library & its services to business at http://www.lcplin.org/research/businesslines.htm







Friday, March 02, 2007

March - April Business at Lake County Public Library

NEW DVD BUSINESS TITLES:

BUILT TO CHANGE 54 minutes copyright 2006

In today’s highly competitive business environment, organizations must be ready to change and change frequently. Edward Lawler and Christopher Worley discuss methods for creating strategies, structures, communication processes, and human resource management practices that are designed to facilitate the ability of an organization to change.


ADAPTIVE ORGANIZATION
55 minutes copyright 2006

More than half of the change efforts at any major organization will tend to fail. Well-meaning leaders often neglect to follow through to the end of the project’s lifecycle. The answer is to engage every employee on the individual level, and challenge each one to make a personal commitment to the success of the organization.


FINDING UNTAPPED GROWTH IN EXISTING MARKETS 53 minutes copyright 2006

Managers are under constant pressure to grow, but it is often difficult to find new avenues of growth within an existing line of business. It is important to understand which customer behaviors make-and lose-money for your organization. Learn how to examine existing markets from a fresh perspective so you can uncover hidden, and perhaps unexpected, opportunities.


STRATEGIES FOR SELLING 47 minutes copyright 2006

Selling is not an event but a process. This process is ever changing, and requires a solid strategy to achieve positive results. Jim Healy explains how to manage the four dynamic and interactive functions of selling: analyzing the opportunity, positioning the solution, aligning with the power base, and overcoming resistance to buying. Believing that selling is a science as well as an art, Healy describes the skills that good sales people need to learn in order to develop an effective selling strategy.

Call the library at 769-3541 and make an appointment with one of our reference librarians for an overview of Lake County Public Library's business databases and a tour of our facility.

See more information about the Lake County (IN) Public Library & its services to business at http://www.lcplin.org/research/businesslines.htm

Thursday, January 18, 2007

January - February Business at Lake County Public Library

International Business....
Are you planning to expand your business into the international market this year? Check out the resources that are available to you at the Lake County Public Library:

Reference & circulating materials on International Business

Databases:
· Business & Company Resource Center – contains the latest business information drawn from the following sources: Encyclopedia of Associations: International Organizations, Encyclopedia of Global Industries, International Directory of Company Histories, and World Market Share Reporter
· Disclosure – Directory information on companies publicly traded on U.S. exchanges.
· International Businesses: One Source – Global Business Brower including Asia – Pacific Edition, European Edition, and U.K. Edition. Three million international businesses and in depth data on more than 100 major industries
· STAT USA – GLOBUS & NTDB – a comprehensive source for credible trade leads and timely market research
· Worldscope – Basic financial information on public companies worldwide

Library Tours & Speaker Service

Booklists & brochures

Call the library at 769-3541 and make an appointment with one of our reference librarians for an overview of Lake County Public Library's business databases and a tour of our facility.

See more information about the Lake County (IN) Public Library & its services to business at http://www.lcplin.org/research/businesslines.htm

Tuesday, December 19, 2006

December's Business at Lake County Public Library

At Your Service....

Throughout 2006 the library promoted it's services for individuals, groups and businesses through displays, newsletters and programs, and on our website. As the year ends and we look forward to 2007 we'd like to highlight our services through Business Lines.







Call the library at 769-3541 and make an appointment with one of our highly trained reference librarians for an overview of Lake County Public Library's business databases and a tour of our facility.

See more information about the Lake County (IN) Public Library & it's services to business at http://www.lcplin.org/research/businesslines.htm

Tuesday, November 14, 2006

November's Business at Lake County Public Library

New DVD Series - Best Practices For Your Website

Do you have a website for your business or organization? Are you thinking about getting one? The library recently acquired a new series of DVDs – “Best Practices for Your Website.”

This new ten part series includes information on website design and development, Internet advertising and marketing and an overview of electronic commerce.

Checkout these titles today:

DVD 659.13 COOL
Cool Tools: Blogs, Wikis, RSS, Podcasting

DVD 343.0994 STAY
Staying Out of Legal Trouble

DVD 658.872 WHAT
What We Know About the User Experience: Results of the OPA Study

DVD 659.144 TENM
Ten Mistakes Web Sites Still Make and How to Fix Them

DVD 005.75 REDE
Redesigning Your Web Site

DVD 658.87 MARK
Marketing Strategies to Drive Traffic to Your Site

DVD 659.144 ADVE
Advertising and the For-Profit Site

DVD 658.572 WEBA
Web Analytics: the Impact of Visitor Data on Site Optimization

DVD 659.2 SOCI
Social Computing: Rules of Engagement

DVD 004.678 STAT
State of the Web

Call the Audio Visual Department at 219-769-3541 for more information about this new series.


New Books

Shaping the Game
Michael Watkins
658.4052 WATK

Shaping the Game is a guide for new leaders which describes negotiating techniques. Watkins identifies four objectives which all leaders should master to be successful: create maximum value in negotiations, capture a fair share of that value, build relationships and preserve your reputation. Hands-on strategies throughout the book offer insight and guidance to new leaders.

The Apple Way
Jeffrey L. Cruikshank
658.4 CRUI

“The Apple Way reveals the secrets and management principles that keep Apple ahead of the curve – including innovative product development, cutting – edge marketing strategies, sleek design and packaging, and a high – performance corporate culture”. Learn the secrets of Apple and apply them to your own business.

Head, Heart & Guts
David L. Dotlich, Peter C. Cairo, & Stephen H. Rhinesmith
658.4092 DOTL

“We find that many business leaders today are in the same situation as the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the Lion - searching for the key personal quality that will somehow make them successful or whole….Quite often, what they need already exists within them but is unrecognized or undeveloped.” – from the Introduction. In today’s world of business, the authors maintain that good leaders must use their head, heart and guts to lead.

Passionate Profitable
Lior Arussy
658.802 ARUS

“Lior Arussy’s new book is another great addition to his work on the theme of improving the customer experience to build lasting and profitable customer relationships. Recommended to both those working on corporate customer strategy and line managers. Strong practical advice from an industry visionary.” Michael Maos, Vice President and Research Fellow, Gartner Research

See more information about the Lake County (IN) Public Library & it's services to business at http://www.lcplin.org/research/businesslines.htm.

Thursday, October 12, 2006

October's Business at Lake County Public Library

Database of the Month Encyclopedia of American Industries

This is an online business reference encyclopedia which provides detailed and comprehensive information on a wide range of industries in every realm of American business. It is part of our Gale Virtual Reference Library which provides users with an online access to a collection of business reference books that can be found in print in the Library.

Call the Reference Department at 769-3541 for more information about our online access to Business Reference Books.


New Books

GO IT ALONE
Bruce Judson
658.1141 JUDS

Go It Alone! is for anyone who has ever dreamed of owning his or her own business. Whether you have a vague yearning or a dream you’ve never dared to realize, this book is for the one of every two Americans who dream of going out on their own….” (Book Jacket)
The author of this remarkable book offers you practical steps to create your business. He is a Faculty Fellow at the Yale School of Management and his views on business success are often quoted in the national media.

Investors in Your Backyard
Asheesh Advani
658.1592 ADVA

You have a great idea for a business but where do you find the capital to start-up your new business? Advani’s book is “The perfect resource for entrepreneurs in search of financing.” – Teresa Ciulla, Executive Editor, Entrepreneur.com. Chapters detail preparing your business plan and fundraising requests, deciding who to ask for money, and your ongoing relationship with the people who finance you.

Selling Beyond ebay
Greg Holden
658.87 HOLD

Holden offers tips on reaching more customers by venturing beyond ebay in the online market. He introduces the seller to new online venues, such as local newspaper websites, Yahoo! Auctions, Amazon.com’s Marketplace and much more.



See more information about the Lake County (IN) Public Library & it's services to business at http://www.lcplin.org/research/businesslines.htm.

Thursday, September 14, 2006

September's Business at Lake County Public Library

Database of the Month – Business Source Premier

As the world’s largest full text business database, Business Source Premier provides full text for more than 3,650 scholarly business journals, including full text for nearly 1,100 peer-reviewed business publications. Coverage includes virtually all subject areas related to business. This database provides full text (PDF) for more than 300 of the top scholarly journals dating as far back as 1922 and is updated on a daily basis.

Business Source Premier is part of the INSPIRE collection of databases – Indiana’s Virtual Library.



Recommended Books

Satisfaction
Chris Denove & James D. Power IV
658.8343 DENO

“For nearly forty years, J.D. Power and Associates has been synonymous with measuring customer satisfaction and helping businesses understand what customers really want….Satisfaction offers tactical advice for companies large or small, for product manufacturers, service providers, and retailers alike.” - Book Jacket


Let Your Customers Do the Talking
Michael E. Cafferky
658.8 CAFF

“You too can master the no-cost ‘secret formula’ that puts your company ahead of the pack. What’s the secret? Let your customers become your best salespeople. Word of mouth is the most powerful marketing tool around. Studies show how satisfied customers tell four or more people about their positive experiences. If, however, you disappoint your customers, word-of-mouth can devastate your business-because dissatisfied customers tell up to eleven other people.” – Book Jacket


Treasure Hunt
Michael J. Silverstein
658.8342 SILV

Silverstein author of the highly acclaimed Trading Up continues the story in Treasure Hunt as he takes the reader into the homes of real people making real buying decisions. By looking at the moods and habits of the constantly changing consumer, companies can survive by marketing to meet those moods and habits. Silverstein challenges companies to avoid the treacherous middle – the consumer wants a bargain or a product worth trading up in cost.



See more information about the Lake County (IN) Public Library & it's services to business at http://www.lakeco.lib.in.us/businesslines.htm.



Thursday, August 03, 2006

August's Business at Lake County Public Library

Database of the Month Hoover's Online

Hoover's Online is a database of 12 million companies with in-depth coverage of 40,000 of the world's top businesses. Use this source to uncover basic company information, investment figures and background on companies and their competition.

Available in all branches of the Lake County Public Library.




New Books

Kitchen Table Entrepreneurs
Martha Shirk & Anna S. Wadia
338.040922 SHIR

“Over the last five years, the number of women-owned businesses has grown at twice the rate of all U.S. firms....Kitchen Table Entrepreneurs tells the inspirational stories of eleven low-income women who have marshaled the creative energy, confidence, and capital necessary to start their own businesses.”--Book Jacket




Starting from Scratch
Wes Moss
338.040922 MOSS

Starting from Scratch offers readable, relatable, bite-size stories that overflow with the kind of real-world advice that you can’t learn in business school. If you’re considering entrepreneurship, read this book. Even if you aren’t, read this book. Just don’t be surprised when you find yourself giving your notice and making The Leap.”--Lew Dickey, Jr., Chairman, CEO, and co-founder of Cumulus Media



More Than a Hobby

David Green
658.87 GREE

Green, founder and CEO of Hobby Lobby, chronicles his small start-up business’ meteoric rise to superstore status. He offers the following practical advice from his experiences as a store manager: allow mangers to spend more than 30 minutes per day on paperwork, don’t pay the middleman – assemble products in house, give buyers authority – don’t micromanage, and keep God and family first.


See more information about the Lake County (IN) Public Library & it's services to business at
http://www.lcplin.org/research/businesslines.htm.

Friday, July 07, 2006

July Materials

Database of the Month Reference USA

The Reference USA Business databases contain detailed information on more than 12 million U.S. businesses. Details include sales figures, executive names and number of employees. Searches can be performed using these categories and more. Reference USA Residential information covers 102 million U.S. residents and is compiled from more than 3,900 White Page telephone directories.

Visit the library today to find out more about this unique marketing tool.



New Books

You’re In Charge – NOW WHAT?
Thomas J. Neff & James M. Citrin
658.4 NEFF

Whether you are new to the organization or have been promoted from within, the authors address questions all new managers face and present an 8 Point Plan for your first 100 days.


Jack Welch and the 4E’s of Leadership
Jeffrey A. Krames
658.4092 KRAM

“With leadership the question at the beginning of the day is, ‘how far can we take this…how big can we grow it…and how fast can we get there?’” – Jack Welch

This book gives a detailed analysis of the “4E” process Welch used to hire only the best. Find out how to hire smart people and cultivate leadership through case studies, examples and guidelines.


Ten Secrets of Successful Leaders
Dr. Donna Brooks & Dr. Lynn Brooks
658.4092 BROO

“Based on their wide-ranging survey of Fortune 500 CEO’s, senior executives, hiring managers, and team leaders, Donna and Lynn Brooks provide you with exclusive access to their well-defined leadership development strategies, best practices, and innovative ideas. You’ll also find a step-by-step road map to gaining winning skills companies need today.” (Book Jacket)



Visit any of our locations today to reserve these titles. Business books count, too, towards Summer Reading rewards!