Is Auburn Public Library Legit?

Quick charity verification for Auburn Public Library (EIN: 16000784)

Verdict: Auburn Public Library appears trustworthy

92/100Mission Score
$1.6MRevenue
$6.1MAssets
0Red Flags
5Strengths

No red flags identified.

Strengths

Spending Breakdown

How Auburn Public Library allocates its funds across programs, administration, and fundraising.

90%
Program Spending
Healthy — majority goes to mission
7%
Admin Costs
Reasonable — admin costs in check
3%
Fundraising
Within typical range
How to read this: Well-run charities typically spend 75% or more on programs, keep admin under 25%, and fundraising under 15%. A high program ratio means more of every dollar goes directly to the mission.

How to Interpret This Report

What Red Flags Mean

Red flags are potential warning signs identified by AI analysis of IRS 990 filings. They may indicate issues like declining revenue, high executive pay relative to program spending, lack of transparency, or governance concerns. A single red flag does not necessarily mean an organization is untrustworthy, but multiple flags warrant further investigation before donating.

What Mission Score Measures

The Mission Score (0-100) evaluates how effectively a nonprofit fulfills its stated purpose. It combines multiple factors: program spending efficiency (how much goes to programs vs. overhead), financial health and sustainability, governance quality, transparency in reporting, and consistency of operations over time. A score of 70+ indicates strong alignment with the organization’s mission.

Using This Data for Donation Decisions

Use this report as one input in your decision. Look at the overall Mission Score for a quick assessment, review red flags and strengths for specific concerns, check the spending breakdown to see where money goes, and compare executive compensation to the organization’s size. Consider viewing the full transparency report for deeper analysis, and always verify tax-exempt status with the IRS before making large donations.

Frequently Asked Questions about Auburn Public Library

Is Auburn Public Library a legitimate charity?

Based on AI analysis of IRS 990 filings, Auburn Public Library (EIN: 16000784) appears trustworthy. Mission Score: 92/100. 0 red flags identified, 5 strengths noted.

Is Auburn Public Library a good charity to donate to?

Auburn Public Library has a Mission Score of 92/100. Revenue: $1.6M. Assets: $6.1M. Review the full transparency report for detailed spending breakdown and executive compensation analysis.

What is the EIN for Auburn Public Library?

The Employer Identification Number (EIN) for Auburn Public Library is 16000784. This is the unique tax ID assigned by the IRS.

What is a Mission Score?

The Mission Score is a 0-100 rating that measures how effectively a nonprofit fulfills its stated mission. It factors in program spending efficiency, financial transparency, governance practices, and outcome reporting. Scores above 70 indicate strong mission alignment, 40-69 suggest mixed performance, and below 40 signals potential concerns.

How does Auburn Public Library spend its money?

Auburn Public Library allocates 90% to programs, 7% to administration, and 3% to fundraising. Healthy nonprofits typically spend 75%+ on programs.

How can I verify Auburn Public Library's tax-exempt status?

You can verify Auburn Public Library's tax-exempt status using EIN 16000784 on the IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search (TEOS) at apps.irs.gov/app/eos. You can also request copies of their Form 990 directly from the organization, as they are required by law to provide them upon request.

AI Transparency Report

The Auburn Public Library demonstrates consistent financial health with stable revenue streams and prudent expense management over the past decade. In the most recent filing (202306), the organization reported revenues of $1,649,348 against expenses of $1,412,987, indicating a surplus that contributes to its growing asset base of $5,999,106. The library's liabilities are relatively low, standing at $174,120 in 202306, which suggests a strong balance sheet and responsible financial stewardship. The organization's spending efficiency appears strong, particularly given the consistent reporting of 0% officer compensation across all available filings. This indicates that the leadership is either volunteer-based or compensated through other means not categorized as officer compensation, which is a positive sign for donor confidence. While a detailed breakdown of program, administrative, and fundraising expenses isn't provided in the summary data, the overall financial picture suggests a focus on mission delivery given the consistent surpluses and asset growth. Transparency is high due to the consistent filing of IRS Form 990s over 13 periods, providing a clear historical financial record. The absence of reported officer compensation is a notable transparency point, suggesting that resources are directed towards the library's operations and services rather than high executive salaries. The stable financial position and consistent reporting contribute to a positive assessment of the library's overall financial management and transparency.

View Full Transparency Report →

Disclaimer

AI-generated analysis based on IRS public records. Not financial or legal advice. Verify information directly with the organization.

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