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Ohio Literary Map

We are proud to present the Ohio Literary Map, a guide to the rich literary legacy of the Buckeye State. Thousands of Ohioans have made substantial and lasting contributions to America's literary heritage. Since it is impossible to list all of the many notable writers on this map, a representative sampling of the talented writers who have called Ohio home are presented (individuals born in Ohio or who resided five years or more in the state). The map also features selected literary landmarks and literary markers throughout the state.

The Ohio Literary Map is a joint project of three organizations that promote Ohio writers: Ohioana Library Association, Ohio Center for the Book at the Cleveland Public Library and the State Library of Ohio.

While this map is created for students in 3rd through 12th grades, it has much to offer for people of all ages. We have attempted to include at least one author from as many of the 88 Ohio counties as possible to give local residents, especially young people, individuals with whom to identify.

There are several criteria for inclusion on the map:

  • Authors recognized as "classics," whose works are still read, studied, or referred to by scholars, students, and/or readers
  • Authors of recently published books who have won major literary a wards
  • Authors of children's books very popular with young readers, as determined by sales figures and name recognition
  • Authors selected to represent various literary genres such as fiction, nonfiction, poetry, journalism/publishing, drama, crime/mystery, science fiction/fantasy, history, cartoons/graphic novels, humor, and children's literature.

Every effort has been made to create an accurate representation of Ohio writers who have met the above criteria. With a project of such a large scope, regretfully there may be omissions or errors.

Funding for the map is provided by Ohioana Library, the Malon Schroeder legacy fund at the Cleveland Public Library and a Library Services and Technology Act grant through the State Library of Ohio.

For publishingleditorial credits and contact information, please refer to the last page of the map.

Aditional information about individual authors can be found on this website here, and on the Ohioana Library Association website.

Enjoy your journey through the literary landscape of Ohio. Learn, discover, and celebrate the outstanding literary contributions of individuals from the Buckeye State.

The Ohio Literary Map is available in sections or as one large file, as downloadable PDF files. Adobe Reader is required to open these documents.