Business Resources Center
Free Business & Economic Resources for LA County
Whether you’re launching a startup, conducting market research, or scaling an existing enterprise, LA County Library offers free access to premium industry databases, local economic reports, expert mentorship, and more. Explore our digital tools below or visit our dedicated Business Resource Center at Norwalk Library to get started.
Library Databases
To access these databases from home, please enter your 13-digit library card number (no spaces) when prompted.
Market Research & Lead Generation
Business Insights: Essentials
Company profiles, histories and detailed industry information.
Data Axle Reference Solutions (formerly ReferenceUSA)
Select “U.S. Business” from the drop down menu for detailed business information. Select “U.S. Residential” to conduct market research or locate friends and relatives.
Mentorship & Consultation
Consumer And Business Affairs Resource Guide
Find free L.A. County resources for financial planning, free income tax assistance, credit repair/building and more.
SCORE is a nonprofit association dedicated to helping small businesses get off the ground, grow and achieve their goals through education and mentorship. NEW!
Physical Collections
The Norwalk Library has an extensive business collection of reference books, journals and trade magazines making it the perfect place for Research. Materials in the business collection must be used in the Library.
Norwalk Library Hours – Tue and Wed: 12 to 8 pm | Thu, Fri, Sat: 10 am to 6 pm
Location Map & Directions
Popular Titles
- ACCRA Cost of Living Index
- Business Plans Handbook
- D & B Million Dollar Directory
- D & B Regional Business Directories
- Small Business Sourcebook
- Weiss Ratings Guides to banks, insurance companies and credit unions
Investment Titles
- Morningstar Investment Newsletters
- Southern California Business Directory and Buyers Guide
- Value Line
International Business
Journals & Trade Magazines
- Industry-specific, investing, small business and marketing magazines
Other Business Resources
BankOn
Provides access to safe and affordable financial products and services in partnership with Los Angeles County Consumer & Business Affairs.
Downloadable Books
Frequently Asked Questions
Business Resource FAQs
- How do I find information on a business?
Data Axle Reference Solutions (see above) is the best source for information on over 14 million U.S. companies. The Quick Search feature allows you to search by company name or telephone number. - How do I find a list of businesses that fit specific criteria?
Data Axle Reference Solutions (see above) lets you search businesses throughout the U.S. The Custom Search feature lets you mix and match over 30 different search criteria to create the type of list you want. - How do I find out if my bank deposits are safe?
You can check the safety or your bank deposit at www.fdic.gov and BankRate give letter-grade ratings for banks throughout the U.S. - How Do I get a free copy of my credit report?
Annual Credit Report is the official website to get a free credit report from the three nationwide consumer reporting companies. You can get all three reports at once or spread them out throughout the year. - Where can I find information about starting my own business?
The Small Business Administration provides a Small Business Planner with information on writing a business plan, financing, licenses and permits, managing a business and even getting out of business. SCORE is a nonprofit association dedicated to helping small businesses get off the ground, grow and achieve their goals through education and mentorship.
