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CFRE Recommended Resources & Reading List

For those who want to pursue the CFRE credential, the Robert Hilbert Nonprofit Resource Center has created a resource list to assist with the studying and testing process for the CFRE exam.

Strategic Services Librarian - Nonprofit Resources

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Bridget Bruch
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Additional Nonprofit Guides

Candid eBook Resources

Are you familiar with Candid.org?  They are the company that encompasses both Foundation Directory as well as Guidestar.  They also have an eBook collection through Overdrive that is comprised of titles that are of interest to the nonprofit community, with many of the CFRE.org recommended books for the CFRE exam.  You will find titles in both eBook and eAudio versions.  Access to their digital book collection is free and only requires the creation of a free account.  If you are unable to find a title in PPLD's print or Overdrive collection, try Candid's collection!  Another great reason to get a Candid eBook library card number?  It can be added onto an already established Libby app.  Ask Bridget (BBruch@ppld.org) for more information on how to link both accounts.  For information on how to access Candid's Overdrive eBook collection and how to create an account, review the following directions.

What is the CFRE exam?

Curious about becoming a Certified Fundraising Executive and what it entails to become certified?  CFRE.org explains why you would want this internationally recognized certification and the process to become one.  Another great resource for assistance and support is the Association of Fundraising Professionals Southern Colorado chapter.  AFP SOCO is based in Colorado Springs and can help you navigate the process as well as help in connecting prospective CFRE test-takers with others who are interested in forming study groups.  AFP SOCO may also have a limited number of scholarships available to AFP SOCO members to assist with the cost of the CFRE exam.

Information about the CFRE reading list

For those who want to pursue the CFRE credential, one obstacle is the expense of study books which are recommended by CFRE.org.  The following recommended titles provide the knowledge base necessary to attain the credential as well as perform well on the exam. To address the high cost of study materials, the Robert Hilbert Nonprofit Resource Center along with the El Pomar Foundation has established a fundraising collection that patrons, or anyone interested in learning about fundraising, can use as a reference.  Not all titles in the PPLD catalog are available for checkout as the books in the Robert Hilbert Nonprofit Resource Center are reference copies.  However, many titles have a circulating copy available or can be found using interlibrary loan - just ask a library staff member for assistance.

CFRE Recommended Resource Reading List and Study Guides