Recently Asked Questions (RAQs)

I work at a special district public library, and we are not currently a 501(c)(3). Everyone I've asked from co-workers to administration to board members says no, we aren't eligible, but no one can answer *why* we wouldn't be eligible. First, we pretty explicitly meet the exempt purposes set forth in section 501(c)(3). Also, I have worked at different types of public libraries that have been 501(c)(3)'s. Based on my reading of the IRS's eligibility requirements and state education law, the important part as far as the IRS is concerned is the structure and authority of an organization's charter. The Board of Regents is responsible for chartering public libraries in the state, so why should it matter what type of library results from the charter? However, IANAL, so I may be misunderstanding or missing something important. That's where you come in!

We are a library that is a hybrid government agency (special taxing district) and a 501(c)3. Does being a 501(c)3 override local gov’t agency status as far as applying for the CARES PPP? We've reached out to several attorneys and even the SBA and we get opposite answers. Help!

Is it legal for a Friends of the Library group to hold their funds and not to use those funds to support the library's mission? OR refuse to pay for library program and services when ask by library staff?
Can they lose their 501c3 status, if it is proven that the funds are not being used to benefit the library?

A member asked if there are any legal issues to consider when using GoFundMe to fund-raise, especially for association libraries.