by Sam Richter
Most people are shocked to learn how much information is available
via public records. From federal, state, county, and local sources, you
can find information on companies and people that you can use to develop
sales lead lists, for research prior to meetings, and for use in
proposals and negotiations.
Unfortunately there is no public records meta-search that is free and
complete, meaning that you need to search for public records by the
specific government entity and geography. Fortunately
Black Book Online
has a well-organized public records directory. The site features links
to just about every available public records search resource.
When
you first access the site, you will be tempted to type a name into the
main search form. Don’t, because it won’t work. What the main search
engine does is let you know the website where a particular public record
might be located. So, for example, you can enter ‘driving records Ohio’
(do not use Boolean) into the search form and the results list will
include third-party websites where you can access your information.
You’ll notice on the results page that each result contains a brief
site description. It will also indicate whether the information is free
or if you’ll have to pay for access. As a directory engine, Black Book
Online features lists of links to its extensive resource database. You
can choose by category or by state. You can also build your own custom
search by clicking on the “Custom Search” link in the category section.
Black
Book Online makes it easy to find a website where a public record might
be located. However, once you access the site, finding the information
you want might be more challenging. For example, if you want court
records in Minnesota, you can use Black Book Online to easily find the
various Minnesota court websites. However, navigating each site can be
difficult as they are all different in the way they provide access to
information.
Before diving into Black Book Online, make sure you have some time.
The site can be addicting, and scary, when you realize what is publicly
available on you and others. Public records are now a click away, now
that you Know More!