Keeping up to date with the latest business information is a key to commercial success - and the task has become much easier following the launch of new services provided by Southampton Central Library.

The city's Business Library has made two database services available to local businesses and they were launched by councillor Derek Burke.

The new services, available to all local companies, will supplement the wide range of business information sources already available within the Central Library. The first of the two new services, Juniper, is a company information database providing access to reports on over six million incorporated and unincorporated companies and 12 million directors. The information is useful for companies checking credit ratings or contract limits, customers checking the financial viability of suppliers, and individuals preparing for interviews.

Report prices start at £2.50 and go up to £10, depending on the complexity of the report. The charges, subsidised by the city council, compare favourably with other company report suppliers.

The second service, the Key British Enterprises database, provides detailed information on the top 200,000 UK companies.

Tailor-made mailing lists can be created for mailshots and the database will be of use to those requiring good competitor intelligence and those who also need to research potential employers.

For more details on either service contact the Business Library direct by telephoning 023 8083 2958. Alternatively email: business. library@southampton.gov.uk