Written by Mackenzie Manley, Content Specialist, Downtown Main Library
This month means March Madness, but it also marks the Library's annual literary showdown, Battle of the Books.
This year's focus is on authors with Ohio ties. Submit your Battle of the Books bracket and vote for your favorite books until one is crowned winner in the Championship Chapter on April 7, 2026.
How to Participate in Battle of the Books
Fill out your book bracket with your choices of Ohio authors! There are two ways to fill out a bracket. Submit your bracket by March 18, 11:59 p.m. EST.
- Add your picks to the book bracket PDF. Don't forget to save the file!
- Or, print, fill out, and scan the book bracket PDF. (Free printing and scanning is available at all CHPL library locations!)
The Fine Print
- You may vote only once per book matchup.
- The winning book will be announced April 7, 2026.
- Read the 2026 book bracket rules.
Vote for Your Favorite Books!
Starting March 12, 2026, the Library will host polls on our Facebook, X, and Threads pages where you can determine which classic books move on from the Storied Sixteen all the way to winning the Championship Chapter.
Make sure you comment on the Battle of the Books social media posts! Show support for your favorite classic books by voting in every round:
- Storied Sixteen: Voting starts March 19-26, 2026
- Exposition Eight: Voting starts March 28-31, 2026
- Fabled Four: Voting starts April 2-3, 2026
- Championship Chapter: Voting is on April 6, 2026
Add a comment to: Win Library Swag in CHPL’s 2026 “Battle of the Books” Bracket