AUGUSTA, Ga. () – The distributors of a book that provides information on businesses in Augusta are releasing their newest book today.

The Little Guide started in Augusta in 2018 to bring the story of a small business owner to light.  Seven years later, there are editions for Macon, Amelia Island, Florida, and Bakersfield, California.

” It’s our mission to encourage people to buy locally and support small businesses,” said Stuart Rayburn, President and CEO of The Little Guide. So, we think through encouraging people to do that, but it just kind of bolsters our community and helps the local economy.”

The book can be found in 120 different places in the CSRA, from North Augusta to Evans, in restaurants and local retail stores. The book contains local restaurants, shopping, services, and experiences.

“We tell the story of the business owner.  So, in that story, why they got started? Why they care? That just shows kind of the background and why they do such a good job at what they do. You know, most people just put advertisements there. We’re not just an advertisement. We tell the story,” said Rayburn.

The Little Guide comes out with a new book every year around this time because of the influx of people coming to the area. They have found that many hotels, Airbnb, and rental homes provide a little guide for their guest.

“People come in pursuing the little guide. They want to know where it is so they can grab it. Especially at Masters Week, they’re coming in, getting a couple for their guest,” said Brad Usry, Owner of Fat Man’s Mill Café.

Small business owners in the area tell me they love being a part of the Little Guide because it is reputable and draws customers into their stores.

“It’s something I would pick up for sure, and that’s one of the reasons I advertise in it because I was like, you know I would, I would look at that myself, and then you know, a lot of people need to pick it up looking for businesses you know it’s just kind of a resource beyond Google,” said Drew Jordan, Owner, Andy Jordans Bicycle Warehouse.

The Little Guide intends to franchise this year and give entrepreneurs a chance to start The Little Guide in their area.