Small businesses in Midland County gained free resources about their local markets from the Midland County Public Library.
All library branches offer Data Axle Reference Solutions, which are searchable databases with market and consumer data, in addition to information on new, existing and historical businesses, the Midland Chamber of Commerce said.
The resource is free to all library cardholders. Information is updated regularly and verified by phone.
More than 50 million active business listings are included in the databases, which are updated regularly and verified by phone, the chamber reported. More than 210 million historical business records are listed, with 4.4 million new businesses. Consumer lifestyles data collected form 293 million individuals also is available. Sixteen million records on new movers and homeowners and 2.5 million job postings are included. Healthcare listings include data on 1.2 million physicians and dentists.
Business owners can research consumer demographics for their location or competing businesses. The data can help with creating marketing plans, direct-marketing lists or researching business locations.
Any computer or device can be used to access Data Axle Reference Solutions. The resources can be found on the library’s website, under the Digital Resources tab, by clicking “Electronic Resources A-Z.”