Nonprofit 101
Websites and books that cover the basics of starting and running a nonprofit organization.
List maintained by librarians at The Seattle Public Library. Updated August 2025.
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Blue Avocado
Blue Avocado is an online magazine with hundreds of articles written by nonprofit leaders, for nonprofit leaders.
View Blue Avocado -
Nonprofit Meetings, Minutes & Records
"Nonprofits have basic corporate responsibilities they must take seriously--or risk the unwanted attention of the IRS. This book provides everything the reader needs to hold meetings and properly document actions taken by the board and members."
Format: Book
Availability: Available
View Nonprofit Meetings, Minutes & Records -
Tax Planning and Compliance for Tax-exempt Organizations
"Filled with practical tips and suggestions for handling such critical situations as preparing for and surviving an IRS examination, Tax Planning and Compliance for Tax-Exempt Organizations, Fifth Edition provides guidance for the significant issues facing nonprofit organizations."
Format: eBook
View Tax Planning and Compliance for Tax-exempt Organizations -
Every Nonprofit's Tax Guide
"This book explains how to file an annual information return with the IRS, the difference between employees and independent contractors, proper recordkeeping, the deductibility of charitable contributions, conflicts of interest, UBIT, lobbying rules, and more. With this comprehensive and thorough overview of nonprofit tax rules, you and your nonprofit can avoid IRS issues."
Format: Book
Availability: On order
View Every Nonprofit's Tax Guide -
IRS Publication 557: Tax Exempt Status for Your Organization
IRS guide to 501(c) organizations. See Chapter 3 for the most common nonprofit type, 501(c)(3).
View IRS Publication 557: Tax Exempt Status for Your Organization -
501 Compensation Tracker - King County Nonprofit Wages & Benefits
Salary information for nonprofit employees in King County, Washington. Download the full report, or explore salary data online.
View 501 Compensation Tracker - King County Nonprofit Wages & Benefits