Nonprofit Resources

On this page, you will find a number of online and print resources that may be useful for you as you start or grow your nonprofit organization. 

​Books at the Library


The Roanoke Public Library has a number of books that will be helpful for anyone interested in starting or growing a nonprofit. Below is just a small sample of books that are available - we have many more on the shelves! Unless otherwise noted, any of the below books are available in the nonfiction section at the Main Library:

Starting & building a nonprofit : a practical guide by Peri Pakroo, 658.048 PAKR. Available on the new book shelf at Main.

Navigating the nonprofit rapids : strategies & tactics for running a nonprofit company by Ted Edlich, 658.048 EDLI

Start your own nonprofit organization : your step-by-step guide to success by Cheryl Kimball, 658.1148 KIMB

Effective fundraising for nonprofits : real-world strategies that work - by Ilona M. Bray, 658.15 BRAY - Available at the Jackson Park Branch

Grant writing for dummies by Beverly A. Browning, 658.1522 BROW - Also available at the Gainsboro and Melrose Branches

The only grant-writing book you'll ever need - by Ellen Karsh, 658.1522 KARS

The complete idiot's guide to grant writing - by Waddy Thompson, 658.152 T379C

Government Resources


See below for resources on government requirements for nonprofits, including 501(c)3 status

IRS guide to applying for 501(c)3 status - Note: Requires Adobe Flash Player

IRS 501(c)3 Application Process - This guide walks you through the 501(c)3 application process using simple yes/no questions.

Exemption requirements

Tax information for nonprofits in Virginia


Additional Online Resources



https://www.charitynavigator.org/ - Provides an independent, third-party evaluation of charities.

http://www.give.org/ - Charity reports from the Better Business Bureau

https://www.charitywatch.org/home – Site from the American Institute of Philanthropy that rovides additional in-depth reports on charities and their use of funds.