What is Sand Siblings AO3?
Sand Siblings AO3, also known as Archive of Our Own, is a non-profit, fan-run, non-commercial archive for fanworks, including fanfiction, fanart, fanvids, and more. It is a platform where fans can share their creative works with others who share similar interests. The name “Sand Siblings” is a nod to the original concept of the archive, which was inspired by the idea of a family of fans coming together to share their love for a particular work or series.
History and Founding
The Archive of Our Own was founded in 2008 by a group of fans who were looking for a safe and welcoming space to share their fanworks. The archive was initially called “FanFiction.Net,” but it was renamed to “AO3” in 2011 to reflect its broader scope and to distance itself from the commercial nature of FanFiction.Net. The name “Sand Siblings” was adopted to emphasize the community aspect of the site, with the idea that fans are like siblings who share a common bond over their love for a particular work.
Features and Functionality
AO3 offers a wide range of features that make it a popular choice for fans looking to share and discover new fanworks. Here are some of the key features:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Search Functionality | Users can search for fanworks by title, author, pairing, character, and more. |
| Tagging System | Authors can tag their works with various themes, genres, warnings, and ratings, making it easier for readers to find content that matches their interests. |
| Customizable Reading Interface | Users can customize the appearance of the reading interface, including font size, background color, and more. |
| Community Forums | AO3 has an active community forum where users can discuss fanworks, share feedback, and connect with other fans. |
Content and Community
AO3 hosts a vast collection of fanworks, with over 2.5 million works available at the time of writing. The content ranges from classic literature to modern television shows, movies, and anime. The site is known for its diverse and inclusive community, which is welcoming to fans of all backgrounds and interests.
One of the unique aspects of AO3 is its emphasis on diversity and representation. The site encourages authors to write fanworks that reflect a wide range of identities, cultures, and experiences. This commitment to diversity has helped AO3 become a go-to source for fans looking for fanworks that are inclusive and representative.
Accessibility and Safety
AO3 is committed to making its platform accessible to all users. The site offers a range of accessibility features, including screen reader compatibility, keyboard navigation, and high-contrast themes. Additionally, AO3 has a strict code of conduct that prohibits harassment, discrimination, and other forms of abuse. This commitment to safety and inclusivity has helped AO3 build a strong and supportive community.
Impact and Recognition
The Archive of Our Own has had a significant impact on the fanfiction community. It has provided a platform for fans to share their creative works, connect with others, and discover new content. The site has also been recognized for its contributions to the fanfiction community, receiving awards and accolades from various organizations.
In 2019, AO3 was honored with the Fanlore Award for Best Organization, recognizing its dedication to supporting fanfiction writers and readers. The site has also been praised for its commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and accessibility.
Conclusion
Sand Siblings AO3 is more than just an archive for fanworks; it is a vibrant community of fans who share a passion for creative expression. With its diverse collection of fanworks, commitment to accessibility and safety, and emphasis on diversity and representation, AO3 has become an essential resource for fans around the world. Whether you are a fanfiction writer, reader, or both, AO3 is a place where you can find support, inspiration, and a sense of belonging.