How Lebanon Public Libraries Foundation allocates its funds across programs, administration, and fundraising.
85%
Program Spending
Healthy — majority goes to mission
15%
Admin Costs
Reasonable — admin costs in check
0%
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 Lebanon Public Libraries Foundation
Is Lebanon Public Libraries Foundation a legitimate charity?
Based on AI analysis of IRS 990 filings, Lebanon Public Libraries Foundation (EIN: 204272140) appears trustworthy. Mission Score: 88/100. 0 red flags identified, 5 strengths noted.
Is Lebanon Public Libraries Foundation a good charity to donate to?
Lebanon Public Libraries Foundation has a Mission Score of 88/100. Revenue: $95K. Assets: $392K. Review the full transparency report for detailed spending breakdown and executive compensation analysis.
What is the EIN for Lebanon Public Libraries Foundation?
The Employer Identification Number (EIN) for Lebanon Public Libraries Foundation is 204272140. 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 Lebanon Public Libraries Foundation spend its money?
Lebanon Public Libraries Foundation allocates 85% to programs, 15% to administration, and 0% to fundraising. Healthy nonprofits typically spend 75%+ on programs.
How can I verify Lebanon Public Libraries Foundation's tax-exempt status?
You can verify Lebanon Public Libraries Foundation's tax-exempt status using EIN 204272140 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 Lebanon Public Libraries Foundation demonstrates a generally stable financial position, with assets growing significantly over the past decade, from $193,872 in 2014 to $265,490 in 2023, and reaching a peak of $392,781 in 2021. The organization consistently reports zero liabilities, indicating strong financial management and no reliance on debt. Revenue and expenses have fluctuated, with a notable surplus in 2020 ($183,763 revenue vs. $22,264 expenses) and a deficit in 2022 ($97,265 revenue vs. $220,146 expenses), suggesting project-based spending or timing differences in funding. The foundation's consistent reporting of 0% officer compensation across all filings indicates a volunteer-led structure, which contributes to lower administrative overhead and high transparency regarding executive pay.
The organization's financial health appears sound for its size, with a healthy asset base relative to its annual revenue. The fluctuations in revenue and expenses are common for smaller foundations that may fund specific projects or campaigns. The consistent absence of liabilities is a significant positive indicator of fiscal prudence. While detailed program spending breakdowns are not provided in the summary data, the lack of officer compensation suggests that a substantial portion of funds, after administrative costs, would likely be directed towards its mission of supporting public libraries.
Transparency is high regarding executive compensation, as no officers receive salaries. The consistent filing of IRS Form 990s over 13 periods further demonstrates a commitment to public accountability. The organization's financial operations appear straightforward and well-managed, particularly given its volunteer leadership.