In what year did J.K. Rowling receive an OBE?

J.K. Rowling received an OBE in 2001.

Queen Elizabeth II appointed Rowling an Officer of the Order of the British Empire in the 2001 New Year Honours. The honor recognized her services to children’s literature. By then, the Harry Potter books had become an international publishing phenomenon, with readers in many countries.

The OBE is one grade within the British honours system. It is awarded for a significant local or regional contribution, or for distinguished work in a particular field. Rowling’s award was connected specifically with literature and children’s reading.

This honor is sometimes confused with Rowling’s later recognition. She received the Companion of Honour in 2017, a separate distinction that recognizes major contributions to the arts, science, medicine or government. Her charitable work has also brought public attention, but the 2001 OBE was primarily a literary honor.