Is Archive of Our Own Down?

The Archive of Our Own, commonly known as AO3, is a nonprofit open-source repository dedicated to fan fiction and other transformative fan works contributed by users. Created by the Organization for Transformative Works (OTW) in 2008, AO3 was launched in beta release in 2009 and has since grown into one of the most prominent and beloved platforms for fan-created content. AO3 provides a space where fans of various media—such as books, movies, television shows, and video games—can share their creative interpretations and expansions of original works, fostering a vibrant and inclusive community.

AO3 is renowned for its user-friendly interface and robust tagging system, which allows users to easily search for and organize works based on fandom, characters, relationships, themes, and more. This detailed tagging helps readers find exactly what they are looking for, whether it's a specific genre, trope, or pairing. The platform also supports a wide range of content types, including fan fiction, fan art, and meta commentary, catering to diverse creative expressions.

One of the key principles of AO3 is the protection of fan works and the rights of their creators. The platform emphasizes user control over their content and respects the creative freedom of its contributors. Additionally, AO3’s commitment to preserving fan works for posterity is reflected in its open-source nature and nonprofit status, ensuring that the platform remains free and accessible to all. By providing a safe and supportive environment for fans to share and celebrate their creativity, AO3 has become an indispensable resource in the fan community, encouraging the exploration and celebration of transformative works across various fandoms.