APLA2012

Zines are becoming a popular addition to different kinds of libraries and archives due to their relevance to different kinds of users, but the uniqueness of zine culture and the zine format present challenges for integrating with standard library and archival practices. Zines are self-published magazines made outside of mainstream press and media that often convey information, perspectives, and stories that are underrepresented in mainstream culture, and so are especially important to marginalized groups such as youth, women, queers, and people of colour. They can be cheaply and easily made with basic technology or elaborate and intricate works of art. They are also unique artifacts that can be important pieces of local and radical history. Amanda Stevens, Librarian at the Anchor Archive Zine Library in Halifax, will present an overview of zine culture and history, outline the benefits of incorporating zines into different kinds of collections, discuss the challenges of collecting and managing zines, and offer practical solutions to these challenges based on current research and practices by libraries and archives around the world.

(Moderator: Patricia Milner)

Presentation