From Newsroom to Nonprofit: The Story of the Buckeye Book Fair

This post is intended for Ohio’s authors and illustrators to help them share the Buckeye Book Fair with their communities.

Back in the 1980s, the editors of The Daily Record in Wooster had an idea that would spark a literary tradition unlike any other in Ohio. Working in collaboration with newspaper editors across the state, they dreamed up an event that would bring authors and readers face-to-face, celebrating Ohio’s own storytellers while encouraging a love of books in every home. With The Daily Record sponsoring that very first event, the Buckeye Book Fair was born.

The Daily Record had the widest circulation back then! That’s how Wooster, Ohio was selected. The community has done a great job of supporting it!

From that grassroots beginning, a nonprofit charity soon followed, the Buckeye Authors Book Fair Committee, Inc., now known simply by its trade name, Buckeye Book Fair. Its mission has remained steadfast for nearly four decades: to promote Ohio’s authors and illustrators, and to increase literacy across the state. For 38 years, this organization has carried forward that vision with energy, joy, and an abiding belief that books can change lives.

Today, the Buckeye Book Fair might just be Ohio’s best-kept literary secret, but it’s one we can’t wait to share with the world. Set for Saturday, November 1st, 2025, at the Greystone Event Center in Wooster, this beloved gathering has grown into a nationally recognized celebration. Each year, the fair welcomes New York Times bestselling illustrators like Richard Cowdrey and acclaimed authors like Loren Long and Amanda Flower. From children’s tales to young adult adventures and compelling non-fiction, it’s more than a book fair, it’s a family reunion for literature lovers.

Now, we invite you to be part of the story. Help us spread the word about this special day by sharing these media assets with your community. Better yet, plan your trip and come experience it for yourself and consider volunteering. Whether as a board member, book shlepper, social media influencer, or part of our street team, your support helps keep this tradition alive and thriving.

The Buckeye Book Fair began with a vision from Ohio’s editors nearly four decades ago. With your help, it will continue to inspire readers and uplift authors for generations to come.

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We’ve gathered an incredible lineup of authors and illustrators, but the truth is, people will only come if they hear about it. That’s where you come in.

Please visit our Promo Page to find ready-to-use media assets. Share them widely​ please.  Post on your social media, send to your book clubs, pass along to coworkers, friends, and family. The more diverse the group of people sharing, the stronger our reach. We want readers from all corners of Ohio to know they can meet their favorite writers and illustrators right here at Buckeye Book Fair.

Here are a few things worth highlighting when you share:

• All-Access T-shirts that give wearers a 10% discount at the event.
• Educator & Librarian Perk: 20% off purchases with a valid workplace ID.
• It’s Statewide: People travel from across Ohio to attend​ so let’s make sure they know it’s worth the trip!

I know we’re all busy (I am too!), but I’m also sharing like crazy because every post, every share, and every mention matters. Together, we can make sure ​the Buckeye Book Fair reaches as many people as possible.

Thank you for being part of this effort​~we couldn’t do it without you.