Norwich Business Library

I had the privilege this week of attending Start! Write, an event run by the Millennium Library to celebrate local authors, publishers and businesses. Run in conjunction with the Norwich Business Library, the day pooled creative minds into the ground floor, exhibiting work to library visitors and staff. As is often the case in Norwich, there was a pleasant range on display; students from UEA running a press start-up, local publishers, illustrators and children’s authors were all in the mix. We each had a stand of material, and spent the best part of the morning chatting to passers by about our work and services.

As a web designer, my enjoyment was twofold. First, to leave the house and get some sunlight. Secondly, to chat to people seemingly unfamiliar with web design, who happened to pass by and found themselves sharing their thoughts. Though the skills for designing websites are quite niche, everybody – for better or worse – has given it a go. It’s a shared experience; whether designing a local church website, setting up a business or messing around on a school project. This common ground led to good conversation, refreshingly different from the usual client/designer dynamic.

Norwich Business Library

Housed in The Forum, Norwich Business Library offers online and offline resources to small businesses in the area. The Business Library provides free access to advice and information that would otherwise feel out of bounds to those starting out. Institutions like the Business Library, and its counterpart NWES across the road, underpin what makes Norwich so inclusive; new ventures are encouraged, while the city is small enough that you feel akin to fellow businesses.

I’d like to thank the Business Library, The Forum and all those who helped organise the day. It was great fun, full of lovely people, and indicative of Norwich’s well-meaning, creative spirit.

Local Links

Norwich Business Library (PDF Leaflet)

Phase Three’s (printed) Goods at Norwich Business Library