With fanfic archives like Fanfiction.net and Wattpad becoming infamous for their low-quality writing and love of censoring adult-rated fanworks, Archive of Our Own provides a user-friendly alternative. Created by the fan-run Organisation for Transformative Works (the OTW) in 2009, Archive of Our Own is now home to many of the most popular fanfic-based fandoms, from Teen Wolf to The Avengers.
But with popularity comes serious expense. AO3’s costs for this year are projected to run up to $70,000, and with recent upsets in OTW leaderships, the archive might seem like it’s on unsteady ground. Its users, however, are eager to prove such doubts are misplaced.
In a Tumblr-based auction, 371 authors offered their services in exchange for donations to the archive. TheAO3 Fundraiser Auction was quickly shared across social media, with fans bidding to pay for customised stories in the fandom of their choice. Bidding ran from April 25 to May 2, with the end total being an impressive $16,729, which comes to just over $45 per author. A lot more than most of us would pay for a book, never mind the 1000-3000 word short story offered by most authors. [READ MORE]Yay I’m a helper
As a member of OTW’s development & membership committee, can i just say how happy this makes me? SO HAPPY, YOU GUYS.
I RAISED $20 FOR THIS WOO! XD It has been very fun to be a part of this community and to volunteer my services.
Look, you guys! <3 You all deserve some amazing recognition for this.
And oh god, why did they have to quote my stupid comment about buying a car? XD
YOU GUYS ALL DO GOOD WORK.
The OTW also runs Fanlore, offers legal advocacy services, and operates a peer-reviewed academic journal whose aim is to increase recognition, study, and appreciation for fan culture and fan works as a legitimate phenomenon. And you guys gave support to all of that with this auction!
Fans raise $16,000 in auction to help popular fic archive