Online Library

Online Library

OIED, in collaboration with business centers of The Ohio State University Libraries and Columbus Metropolitan Libraries, is pleased to offer free digital content, at your fingertips, through these online libraries.

Note:  all library databases listed are licensed for “non-commercial, educational and research purposes only”. 

  • Curated list of eBooks and textbooks on academic innovation, commercialization and entrepreneurship - Coming soon! – OSU’s Business & Economics Librarian is ready to order 15-20 books we select including eBooks which allow at least 3 concurrent users) 

Anyone with an Ohio address is eligible to obtain a library card for free and access digital content like eBooks and audiobooks instantly and freely with your library card.   

RESOURCES A-Z  including online tutorials.  

1st Stop Business Connection  Free state level business start-up information, including information kit and forms, needed to get started or continue on your entrepreneurial journey. They offer checklists that cover state regulations for specific types of businesses.  Includes a hiring guide.  

Personal Assistance through the Ohio Small Business Development Center (SBDC) program. is partially funded by the Ohio Department of Development and the U.S. Small Business Administration.  

Online Educational Webinars in addition to Adult Education Classes

Understanding Intellectual Property  by Attorney Jocelyn Smith from Ulmer and Berne will introduce the concept of Intellectual Property and help participants understand when their ideas, inventions and creations can be protected by law.  Ms. Smith will cover trademark, copyright or patent, how to get started obtaining these and go-to resources to protect your IP.  Inventors, creatives and entrepreneurs won’t want to miss this.    July 19th, 2023 12:00 PM 

Ohioans can get free, unlimited access to LinkedIn Learning (formerly Lynda.com) with a library card from one of Ohio’s 251 public library systems.  LinkedIn Learning is an on-demand library of instructional videos covering the latest business, technology and creative skills. Many of the courses are directly tied to careers on Ohio’s In Demand Jobs list (more than 230 careers!).  LinkedIn Learning also offers Learning Paths that help bridge the gap between the career you want and the skills you need. Learning Paths provide you with a customized set of training classes to help you achieve your professional and personal goals. 

Format: On-demand library of instructional videos. 

Creators:  Lynda.com content plus the video courses are taught by industry experts. 

Courses for Competencies:  With more than 16,000 courses (in seven different languages) and personalized recommendations, you can discover, complete, and track courses related to your field and interests.   

Suitability:  Anyone since these are designed for any skill level.