The Internal Revenue Service plans to undertake a long-term study of fund raising and spending by charitable organizations, reports Government and Politics Watch, The Chronicle’s online column.

Lois G. Lerner, director of the exempt-organization division of the IRS, told reporters that it is especially important to monitor the nonprofit world during the current economic downturn as demand for charitable services rises and donations fall.

Plus:

• Barack Obama’s economic aides are winning praise from international-development charities.

• Arts lovers are urging Mr. Obama to create a Cabinet-level position to oversee cultural activities.

• A charity is holding an inaugural ball to celebrate community service and the engagement of young voters in this year’s election.