The British Library's Business & IP (Intellectual Property) Centre is celebrating the opening of its tenth centre in the UK, as Hull Central Library's Centre opens its doors on 14 June. This is a milestone for the British Library, which celebrated its tenth anniversary in 2016 and has helped over half a million entrepreneurs and budding business owners get their ideas off the ground since its launch.

Entrepreneurs and businesses in Hull can now get extra support from Hull Central Library with the launch of a unique new service designed to enable people to protect, research and commercialise their ideas.

The new Business & IP Centre in Hull's Library is one of ten centres across the UK. It is modelled on the successful British Library Business & IP Centre in London and allows entrepreneurs to take advantage of free intellectual property and business information and expertise.

The Business & IP Centre offers a walk-in service, providing free access to business databases, market research reports, company data and information on patents, trademarks, designs and copyright. Qualified and experienced staff at the library are on hand to provide information and guidance, working with local partners to deliver practical workshops and one-to-one advice and signposting users to other support available within the city.

Roly Keating, Chief Executive of the British Library said:

"As Hull flies high with its dazzling City of Culture programme, this is the perfect moment to be opening a new Centre for entrepreneurs and small businesses in Hull Central Library, the latest partner to join the British Library's national network. We look forward to working with our colleagues in Hull to spearhead business growth and innovation in the area."

Find out more about the services on offer www.hcandl.co.uk/BIPCHull or follow Hull Business & IP Centre