In the Age of AI, Books Still Matter — and So Does Real Business Advice
- by @inc
- 31-10-2025
As artificial intelligence continues to reshape how we live and work, there’s one thing that remains constant: the value of trusted knowledge. In a world of instant answers and unverified online advice, the humble book still holds a vital place in how we learn and grow.
For entrepreneurs and small business owners, books remain a cornerstone of professional development. They provide structured learning, depth of understanding, and insight that has been tested, researched, and proven. Unlike the fast-flowing — and often unreliable — advice found across the internet, books invite reflection, offering knowledge that endures beyond trends and technology.
Recognising this, MENTA, the not-for-profit organisation supporting enterprise across Suffolk and Norfolk, has relaunched the Essential Business Guides — a suite of practical workbooks designed to help individuals and micro-businesses navigate every stage of their business journey. From marketing and finance to compliance and business planning, these guides distil decades of expertise into clear, accessible learning.
MENTA’s Chief Executive, Alex Till , said:
“While AI and digital tools are transforming how we work, books remain an anchor for reliable learning. They give people time to pause, think, and apply knowledge properly — something that’s crucial when running a business.”
But learning shouldn’t happen in isolation. True progress comes from conversation — from regularly discussing business goals and challenges with knowledgeable, accredited advisers who can offer both perspective and accountability.
That’s why MENTA has introduced MENTAring — a new, structured support offer enabling business owners to schedule ongoing one-to-one sessions with trusted advisers for a subsidised fee. These sessions allow entrepreneurs to reflect, review, and refocus with guidance that’s grounded in real experience, not speculation.
As the digital world continues to evolve, the most successful businesses will be those that combine AI-driven innovation with human insight and evidence-based learning.
Books remain at the heart of that journey — a reminder that, while technology can accelerate access to information, true wisdom still takes time, conversation, and reflection.
For more information about the Essential Business Guides and MENTAring, visit:
https://store.menta.org.uk/ or contact us at heretohelp@menta.org.uk 01284 760206