The term economic gardening sprouted into my field of vision in the Colorado State Library survey response to the Project Compass Library Responses to Economic Tough Times survey. Intrigued by the concept of promoting the growth of local small businesses, I dug a little deeper into the role that libraries play in enhancing the fertility of this kind of “garden.” This article is intended to plant the seeds of an idea in your minds. If any of those seeds burst into programs or projects in your library, please share your experience by submitting an article or joining the discussions.
Definition of economic gardening
Christine Hamilton-Pennell is the driver behind Growing Local Economies, a website focused on local economic development. Her organization provides training for entrepreneurs and libary staff. She offers a concise definition of economic gardening:
In brief: economic gardening focuses on “creating a nurturing environment for growing local entrepreneurs rather than ‘hunting’ or recruiting businesses from elsewhere.” It identifies entrepreneurial initiatives that provide the greatest impact on economic growth.
The concept of economic gardening first took root in Littleton, Colorado, which explains the concentration of projects and references in that state. The idea is ripe to spread across the country as the current downturn motivates communities to find new solutions.
Connection between libraries and economic gardening
“Libraries are natural partners in local economic development efforts.”
So begins a healthy rationale on the Growing Local Economies site about the role of libraries. Library staff can support the information needs of local business owners. Libraries also play an integral role in stitching together community interests with local and state agencies.
Library projects and resources
- Economic Gardening with Public Librarians: Hamilton-Pennell's blog post cites case studies of libraries involve in economic gardening initiatives.
- Economic Gardening Online Databases and Information Resources: a guide compiled by the Business Librarian at Poudre River Public Library District. The extensive list provides links and descriptions for resources of use to local businesses and entrepreneurs.
- Business Services Interest Group: an interest group of the Colorado Association of Libraries where business librarians can share ideas and resources for outreach to their local business communities.
- Economic Gardening Preconference at the Colorado Association of Libraries 2009 state conference: includes slides, handouts, and links to related resource
