The Affordable Care Act and You

Open Enrollment Starts October 1

There's been a lot of talk about the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and what it means for our lives. Just this morning there was talk on one of the networks that the law remained unclear to many, and understandably so, as we haven't yet seen its full effect. But you don't have to be confused! Here I want to briefly outline what the new law could mean for you and your family. The information here is from the State of Michigan and the US Government, so let's look deeper and get beyond the media hype. Understanding how insurance works is never easy, but you can be better prepared by doing a little reading before October 1.

Are Public Libraries Relevant?

I have been thinking a lot lately about the library of the 21st century. The job descriptions of public librarians look nothing like they did in 1990, and those in 1990 looked far different from those in 1980. Things continue to change rapidly as new technologies emerge and become ubiquitous in the lives of some Americans. Have technological innovations like the internet, e-books, and databases made physical libraries unnecessary?

What's a Business Center, anyway?

Robert T. Bolo, Jr. Business Center

When you hear "business center" what comes to mind? My mind immediately goes to the business centers you see in airport terminals or hotels. These places are used by "business people" to print, fax, scan, make use the wireless internet, or simply use an electrical outlet to charge their phone while they are traveling. Generally self-serve and unstaffed, these locations bear little resemblance to the GDL Business Center in Grand Blanc.

So You Want to Start a Business...

 You Have an Idea - Now What? 

Starting a business is a challenge. 

Where do I start? 

Is my idea viable?

What's a business plan?

Luckily, there is a wealth of information available to Michigan entrepreneurs looking for advice and guidance. You don't have to do it alone! See full post for more information. 

New Resource!

New Database Helps Local Entrepreneurs

Genesee District Library patrons now have access to DemographicsNOW, a powerful database that includes a business directory, plus national and state demographic information. See full post for complete list of capabilities and videos.

GDL Business Center on ABC12!

Business Center Promotes Financial Resources on ABC12

Genesee District Library, in partnership with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority's Investor Education Foundation, has taped 3 informational television spots highlighting investing and personal finance resources. See full post for current video.

SCORE counseling comes to GDL!

Business Center now hosting FREE monthly business counseling

SCORE (previously Service Corps of Retired Entrepreneurs) is a national organization that offers free business counseling to current and prospective business owners. Each mentor is a current or former business owner and is available for hour-long counseling sessions.