For financial info on specific businesses:
Look into Hoover's handbooks at the library also. Or go to a search engine and type in quotes the name of a specific business.
Looking to start a small business?
The library has numerous print titles that can help. Also try the Small Business Administration's web site:
Need to know who makes...
That small metal piece that fell out of your thingamajig? Look into the Thomas Register at the library or a manufacturer's directory.