What is FUNDVEC and what is its mission?
FUNDVEC is a volunteer-operated, 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to provide access to books for in impoverished rural areas in Venezuela.

Who runs FUNDVEC?
FUNDVEC is operated entirely by a Board of Directors that serves on a volunteer basis. FUNDVEC Board members or other volunteers pay their own out-of-pocket expenses when travel to Venezuela is necessary.

Does FUNDVEC have any paid employees?
No. FUNDVEC is operated by volunteers.

Why build public libraries in rural areas of Venezuela?
More than 70% of Venezuela’s rural population are poor and cannot afford books to do homework or research health, agricultural or occupational issues and concerns. Without books, the rural poor fail to get an adequate education which is necessary for making informed decisions to improve their lives.

Aren't there public libraries in Venezuela?
Public libraries are found in Venezuela's mid- to large-sized cities; however, public libraries are non-existent in rural areas where most citizens remain isolated without access to books.

Where is Biblioteca Pública El Páramo located?
Biblioteca Pública El Páramo is located in Caserío El Páramo, a small rural village about 45 minutes from the agricultural crossroads city of Valle de La Pascua in Guárico State, Venezuela.

How many citizens does Biblioteca Pública El Páramo serve?
Biblioteca Pública El Páramo serves rural citizens in Caserío El Páramo (pop. 1,279) as well as those of eight smaller caserios (villages).

How much did Biblioteca Pública El Páramo cost, and how much does it cost to operate?
Biblioteca Pública El Páramo cost $35,900.00 at the time it opened; and its current operating costs are $755.00 per month (as of January 2008).

Who oversees the management and operations of FUNDVEC library projects?
The FUNDVEC Board of Directors oversees the construction and management of library projects. An expense and activity report is sent to the Board President each month by the Library Coordinator.

How does FUNDVEC know what kinds of books the local community needs?
FUNDVEC consults with local educators, parents and community representatives to learn the needs of students and the community. Individual requests for specific book selections are also considered.

Where does FUNDVEC buy books for its library projects?
FUNDVEC purchases books in Venezuela because they best match the rural community’s native language and educational needs; moreover, they’re generally less expensive to buy in Venezuela. Does FUNDVEC accept donations of books? At present, book donations are not being accepted.

How does FUNDVEC determine where library projects will be located?
FUNDVEC considers impoverished rural communities that demonstrate both the need for books as well as a willingness to participate in a library project. All decisions are made without regard to politics or religion.

Has FUNDVEC built other rural public libraries besides Biblioteca Pública El Páramo?
No. Since Biblioteca Pública El Páramo was built in 2004, sharply rising construction and operating costs have prohibited FUNDVEC from venturing into new construction of public libraries.

Does FUNDVEC have any other library projects?
Yes. In 2007 FUNDVEC launched the Planting Seeds of Knowledge Bookcase Libraries Program.

How does FUNDVEC raise money for its library projects?
FUNDVEC solicits donations and grants from generous individuals, businesses, private foundations and through community fundraising events.

Who oversees costs, expenditures and fund transfers?
The FUNDVEC Board of Directors oversees all costs, expenditures and funding transfers.

Is FUNDVEC affiliated with any political parties or governmental organizations here or in Venezuela?
No. FUNDVEC is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization with no affiliation to any political party or government organization. FUNDVEC is also registered in Venezuela as an independent, non-governmental, non-profit organization. Is my donation to FUNDVEC tax-deductible? Yes. Because FUNDVEC operates under 501(c)(3) status, donations are tax-deductible to the extent provided by law.