October 2026 Resource Spotlight: Business Resources

Ever tried to find a brand-new restaurant before they set up a website? Or needed the address of a former employer that closed down years ago for a job application?

When a standard internet search comes up empty, your library card unlocks powerful, professional-grade research databases for free. Here is how to search our top business tools found on our Business Resources, opens a new window page.

Reference Solutions, opens a new window

Use this database when you need comprehensive directory listings across the United States and Canada.

Current & New Businesses: Updated weekly to track brand-new locations before they appear on search engines.
Historical Businesses: Access records dating back to 1997 for closed or relocated companies.
Pro-Tip for Local Searches: When using Quick Search, leave the city field blank! Businesses in the Mahoning Valley often register under the broader Youngstown metro area rather than specific suburbs like Austintown, Boardman, Canfield, or Poland.

How to create a list of local businesses:

Open the Advanced Search
Select Business Type -> Keyword/SIC/NAICS and type your industry (e.g., "restaurants").
Select Geography to filter by City, County, or Radius, then click View Results.

Need a walk-through? Check out this quick Niche Academy Video Tutorial, opens a new window.

Mergent Intellect , opens a new window

Ideal for deep-dive research on major public and private corporations worldwide. Simply type the company name into the main search box to instantly access overviews, executive profiles, annual reports, and financial data.

Free Online Alternatives

Better Business Bureau (BBB), opens a new window: The go-to tool for finding home-based contractors (like landscaping or handyman services) and checking consumer reliability ratings.
Ohio Secretary of State Business Search, opens a new window: Verify if a business is currently Active, Cancelled, or Dead. Click Show Details to view and download official state filing documents.

Need a hand navigating these tools? Call 330-744-8636, email ASK@libraryvisit.org, opens a new window, or drop by your nearest branch, opens a new window for personalized, one-on-one help from a librarian!