The Small Business Center in the Division of Continuing Education at Sandhills Community College offers free seminars designed for small business owners and employees as well as for prospective entrepreneurs.

Marketing a product or service doesn't need to cost a fortune. "Marketing on a Shoestring" will be offered Tuesday, Feb. 2, from 6 to 9 p.m.

This seminar provides marketing ideas and strategies to attract new customers, get more business from existing customers, and increase sales and profits. All of this can be accomplished without "breaking the bank."

Writing articles and other short pieces has its rewards; however, nothing beats becoming a published book author. A published book offers a sense of permanence and tangibility that few other media can match. Getting there is the hard part, but doable with luck, timing and persistence.

The free seminar, "How to Publish Your Book Now," will be offered on Tuesday, Feb. 9, from 9 a.m. until noon.

On the same date, from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m., "How to Promote Your Book Now" will cover endorsements, marketability and marketing materials. Participants will learn how to promote their books on Web sites, using blogs, speaking engagements and book fairs.

These programs are funded by a grant from the N.C. Legislature to increase the success rate of small businesses. The Center, located in Van Dusen Hall, Room 101, offers informational resources, one-on-one counseling and referrals.

Seminars are available at no cost; however, preregistration is requested. Call (910) 695-3938 or e-mail neelym@sandhills.edu for more information and to preregister.