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Dayton Book Fair Expands Its Mission with the Curious Medal for Literary Endeavor
What started as a local initiative in 1970 in Dayton, Ohio, has evolved into a significant nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting reproductive rights. Initially driven by women selling used books to raise funds, the Dayton Book Fair has established itself as a cornerstone of the community. It now provides annual grants of up to $10,000 to three local nonprofits and operates a successful used bookstore in downtown Dayton, which has earned accolades as the best bookstore for two consecutive years. The organization also hosts an annual book fair that sells around 50 tons of books and is set to launch the Curious Medal for Literary Endeavor in 2026.
The foundation’s funding initiatives are primarily sustained through sales of secondhand books. Larkin Vonalt, the executive director of the Book Fair Foundation, highlights an ongoing issue within the secondhand book market, which generates more than $3 billion annually in the U.S. While most used books are priced affordably, unique editions, such as first prints or signed books, can fetch thousands of dollars. However, writers see none of these profits, motivating the foundation to establish the Curious Medal to address this oversight.
In a climate where artistic expression faces significant challenges, Vonalt notes the foundation’s commitment to recognizing and uplifting artists through this new award. “Artists from various disciplines are encountering difficulties as the current societal landscape grows more severe,” Vonalt explains. “Acknowledging and celebrating writers is crucial now more than ever.”
The Curious Medal not only honors creativity and imagination but also embodies the whimsical spirit of the foundation’s secondhand bookstore, Rabbit Hole Books. The store is adorned with plush purple armchairs and quirky rabbit decor, capturing the essence of Lewis Carroll’s works, which celebrate imagination against the backdrop of a rigid era.
“We are seeking fictional works that prioritize imagination,” says Vonalt. While some may immediately think of fantasy or science fiction, she emphasizes that notable novels often exhibit unique quirks or an engaging liveliness that distinguishes them from conventional literary fiction.
The selected winner and five finalists will receive medals—crafted from sterling silver or bronze, featuring a whimsical, Carroll-inspired rabbit in formal attire. Finalists will each earn $1,000, and an awards ceremony is planned for March 2026 in Dayton, during which the foundation will cover travel expenses for the winning author. “We excel at hosting celebrations and would love to welcome the winning writer to Dayton as a special guest,” declares Vonalt.
To be eligible for the inaugural Curious Medal, publishers of fiction released within the past three years can submit entries via the foundation’s website. The award is open to both young adult and adult literature, with submissions accepted between March 31 and June 2, accompanied by a $65 reading fee.
The book fair not only focuses on funding community organizations but also extends its impact throughout the state and beyond. While this year’s award is restricted to authors in the U.S., there are plans to create an international category by 2027. The organization has previously demonstrated its generosity by donating large quantities of books to children’s libraries in Africa and supporting various literacy initiatives. Additionally, the bookstore gives away free books to children every summer Monday and allows local residents to pick up books at no cost year-round.
The inviting and charitable ambiance of the Book Fair is evident in Rabbit Hole Books, where patrons can find books for only a dollar. Vonalt describes the experience as a “dopamine fix” for many visitors. “Our mission is to provide a meaningful outlet for community members to donate their used books,” she shares, highlighting that many donations come during emotionally challenging times. “While some donors feel quite attached to their books, they often express relief knowing they are entrusted to an organization that appreciates their inherent value.”
A version of this article appeared in the 03/24/2025 issue of Publishers Weekly under the headline: New Literary Award Celebrates the Triumph of Imagination.
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