When you think of a library what do you think? A sea of books, a few computers, and quietness? Your library probably offers way more than you think, especially for entrepreneurs. Maybe you’re in the early stages of your business and want to create a logo. Did you know there’s a class at the local library for that? Maybe you need a model of your product and need a 3-D printer. Yes, your library has one!
The Cuyahoga County Public Library has several locations each offering something unique. Here are 5 ways your Cuyahoga County libraries can serve you on the path of entrepreneurship.
1. Tech Training
The library offers free tech training classes that cover everything from the basics of operating a computer to creating digital masterpieces. Classes range from beginner to advanced and cover:
- Google Drive
- Illustrator
- Lightroom
- Microsoft Office
- Outlook
- Photoshop
- Windows 10
2. Cuyahoga Works and Career Services
Their free ENCORE Entrepreneurs workshops can help you realize your dreams of starting and growing a successful business, owning a franchise or developing a new product. Learn how to generate, cultivate and develop your business ideas and concepts. Learn more at cuyahogaworks.org.
3. Innovation Centers
The Innovation Centers at Cuyahoga County Public Library are creative, collaborative and educational spaces that provide access to advanced software, emerging technologies, production studios and co-working spaces. They are housed at the Garfield Heights, Mayfield and Parma-Snow branches. There is no charge to use the equipment in the Innovation Centers, however, users are responsible for the costs of consumable materials (eg. 3-D printing filament, vinyl material, etc.), a limited supply of which are available for purchase at the respective library check-out desks. Explore the Innovation Centers at ccplencore.org/innovation.
4. Recording Studios
You can record and edit at the library. Three of their branches offer free access to studios equipped with the latest digital recording technology: Garfield Heights (audio and video), South Euclid-Lyndhurst (audio) and Warrensville Heights (audio). The Garfield Heights Branch even includes a green screen that you can use to create your own videos. The studios are free to use, but an orientation is required. Learn more at cuyahogalibrary.org/studios.
5. The Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Memory Lab
The Memory Lab is a free do-it-yourself space for the community to learn how to access, digitize and share old videos, audio recordings, photographs, and slides. Located in the South Euclid-Lyndhurst Branch, the Memory Lab is open for public use (ages 18 and over) at no charge. Equipment includes:
- Slide scanner
- Photo scanner
- Document scanner
- VHS to DVD
- Cassette to MP3
- Floppy disk to digital
- Turntable to digitalization
- Super 8 films to digital
- BiblioBoard creator
- PCs and Macs
An orientation is required and can be scheduled by calling 216.382.4880 or visiting cuyahogalibrary.org/memorylab.
