Today is National Librarian Day! Did you know that Pitt has its own entrepreneurship librarian? In our newest blog article, get to know LaMonica Wiggins (pictured above) and learn what led her to become an entrepreneurship librarian, what her favorite small businesses are, what library resources are available specifically for Pitt student entrepreneurs, and much more!
LaMonica is a dear friend of the Big Idea Center and we are excited to feature this awesome lady on a day honoring librarians around the nation! Read LaMonica's full interview below.
- What led you to become an entrepreneurship librarian?
I have worked in libraries for over 20 years and my first full-time librarian position was at the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh as a Business Librarian. In this position, I had the opportunity to work alongside very talented business librarians who were passionate about demystifying the research process and connecting entrepreneurs to solid resources. I learned a lot in this position and had the chance to support many entrepreneurs and work closely with organizations like SCORE, the Diversity Business Resource Center and the Mayor’s office. My exposure to this facet of librarianship ultimately sparked my interest in working exclusively with entrepreneurs.
- What’s your favorite part about being a librarian?
I really enjoy using information to teach people how to be independent researchers and lifelong learners. Information is power and I am enthusiastic about helping entrepreneurs level up, especially minority entrepreneurs in our community. I want to see Pittsburgh businesses succeed long-term and I know understanding their market, competition and customers is critical to developing their marketing strategy. I also really enjoy learning about emerging technologies and super cool services on the horizon.
- Why is research important for entrepreneurs?
Market research is one of the most important parts of the startup process as it helps inform decision-making within your business. It can give key insights into not only who your customers are, but also what they want and the proper channels for connecting with them. Reliable research and quality data also helps entrepreneurs find market opportunities or niches, examine competitors and more effectively solve problems that may threaten their success.
- What are some of your favorite small businesses?
I have had the chance to work with really talented young entrepreneurs who are making waves in Pittsburgh and beyond. One of my new favorite businesses is Kin of Duncan (@kin_of_duncan), a custom pet apparel business of 7th grader Jazmiere Bates. Jazmiere recently placed in the library’s social innovation competition last month. Her business has taken off and she has her own storefront at Gallery on Penn.
- What’s an interesting entrepreneurial project that you helped a student with?
I once assisted a student in researching the science behind lab grown hair follicles and their possible application in the hair/beauty industries. What an interesting rabbit hole of information!
- What are some quick, helpful tips to help student entrepreneurs with their research?
- Be prepared to amend your idea as new information becomes available.
- Take full advantage of the many of resources that are available within your networks. People are good sources of information too.
- Visit your local public library as they can be an invaluable resource for new entrepreneurs. They often purchase access to business subscription resources and make them available to the broader community. This is especially true here in Pittsburgh. Once you graduate, your local library will be a great starting place.
- Ask for help! Market research is not always intuitive. I am here for you!
7. What library resources are available to Pitt student entrepreneurs?
Pitt students, faculty and staff have access to a world class research collection of reports, datasets, articles and primary resources here at Pitt. You can explore the Entrepreneurship Resources @ Pitt Guide for an updated list of the resources to support your entrepreneurial research.
About LaMonica:
LaMonica Wiggins (She, Her, Hers) is the Entrepreneurship and Economics Librarian at the Pitt University Library System. She supports students, faculty, staff and the public with small business research including market and patent analysis. She develops outreach programs to address disparities in the entrepreneurial experience of African American, women and other disenfranchised entrepreneurs and collaborates with government and nonprofit organizations to design services for Pittsburgh-based entrepreneurs.