The (ALA) has named 13 libraries that were selected to receive a total of $1.3 million to develop their library entrepreneurship centers. Part of Libraries Build Business, an initiative established by Google.org to enable libraries across the country to increase the number of business creators they serve from low-income and underrepresented backgrounds. The program aims to provide services to 15,000 people over the course of 18 months.

"Libraries Build Business showcases libraries’ role as catalysts for equitable opportunity, just when it’s needed most," said ALA President Julius Jefferson in a statement. "In this time of economic hardship for many, the challenges are most acute for communities of color and people with low incomes. Even in a better economy, fewer than 30% of U.S. businesses were minority-owned. By expanding services such as business classes and workshops, mentorship opportunities, database and research expertise, co-working and makerspaces and specialized equipment and technology, Libraries Build Business is paving a way to revitalize our business communities."

Jacqueline Fuller, president of Google.org said: "With the COVID-19 crisis, there has never been a more critical time to support our small businesses and ensure they can survive and thrive well into the future. Libraries are the gathering places of many communities, and increasingly they are learning centers for entrepreneurs. Their role is vital in our collective effort to support small business leaders and entrepreneurs who need it most."

The 13 libraries selected for the award include:

• Appleton Public Library (WI) 
• Baltimore County Public Library (MD)
• Broward County Public Library (FL)
• Ferguson Municipal Public Library (MO) 
• Gwinnett County Public Library (GA) 
• Independence Public Library (KS) 
• Laramie County Library System (WY) 
• Los Angeles Public Library (CA) 
• Providence Public Library (RI) 
• Richland Library (SC)
• Spokane County Library District (WA) 
• Topsham Public Library (ME) 
• Yakama Nation Library (WA)