Since the LAC receives no municipal tax support, it is funded by membership donations, grants, fund-raising events and interest paid from an endowment fund. Arts Center Endowment Trust A growing portion of the center's operational budget is generated from the Arts Center Endowment Trust. Gifts to the Trust from individuals, businesses and foundations help to insure and maintain long-term excellence in Arts Center programs. Membership Families, artists, patrons and businesses from Newport and the surrounding area have all become members of the Library Arts Center. Their support allows the Arts Center to operate the gallery without an admission fee, to offer the special programs free of charge, and subsidize the arts education program.
Members receive advance notice of exhibits, artists' receptions, and classes.
Endowment gifts and membership donations are tax deductible. The Library Arts Center is located in the rear of the Richard's Free Library in a renovated carriage house. Two spacious galleries display changing exhibits of fine arts, crafts and history. Classes, workshops and performances take place throughout the February to December season. The gallery is open Tuesday through Saturday 11am to 4pm.