FAQs

The 501 (c)3 non-profit organization that runs the Library is called the Round Top Library Association. Donors are welcome to write checks using either name to qualify as tax deductible donations. RTLA is a private non-profit, not a public entity. However, because the Town of Round Top makes the minimum contribution to our institution that qualifies us as a civic library, we are also a public library certified by the Texas State Library and Archives Commission.

First, make sure you are clear about what you want. Some funds go to operations, like engraved pavers and cash donations. Some are dedicated, like the Facilities Fund and Land Rush. You can also dedicate contributions directly to fund a specific program or any other beneficial contribution. However, such contributions must go through the Board of Directors to assure they are compatible with our mission.

Our books are also transparent to our patrons. If you require additional financial information, please contact our treasurer, Gary Russell. Please be patient. All officers and Board members are volunteers.

Yes, especially if you are also available to lead or assist with the project you fund. Many of the current programs, events and improvements at the Library began as an idea of a volunteer or donor, then became part of our regular services.

Yes! The Town of Round Top may only have 87 citizens, but just the lending library part of our operations serves patrons in the thousands. We also have a long-standing relationship with the Round Top Carmine schools. The arts and music programs that now exist in the schools were originally started by the Library, Children are bused regularly to Library programs from the schools. We also have regional partners from other communities who collaborate with us on events, performances and programs. We aren’t just a small town library anymore. We are a regional community center.

It’s pretty straight forward. We are a very conservative organization financially with a limited donor base and almost no public financial support. If not for our many volunteers and a devoted staff that works below their market value, we could not provide the many services we offer. That is why we have worked since our founding to become debt free, which we finally accomplished in 2015. We have a small endowment but it is not large enough to sustain our long term goals.