So...what is a zine?
A zine (pronounced ZEEN) can be many things and can take many forms. Most basically, it is a small-scale, self-published publication, similar to a magazine, which can focus on a variety of topics.
- What is a zine? - The Bindery
The bindery offers a rich definition of a zine. They define a zine as "a self-published, non-commercial print-work that is typically produced in small, limited batches." This article offers a great introduction to zines and why they matter.
Whatcha Mean, What's a Zine? by ISBN: 9780618563159Publication Date: 2006-06-26This book is a great one-stop-shop for an introduction into zines. In this book you can learn about zine history, zine creation, hear from some zinesters (people who make zines), and get inspiration and hacks to make your very own zine!
Zines in video
This short video offers a quick and easy background on zines. Added bonus, they interview a zine librarian. Did you know that those even exist?
This video, which is significantly longer, offers a more in-depth exploration of the topic. We get to see zines in a variety of contexts, how some people come together to make them, and how people curate zine collections.
Read More!
- A Brief History of ZinesIf you want to know a bit about the history of zines, this is a great article for you! It offers a quick survey of the rich history of zines.
- Girl Zine Networks, Underground Itineraries, and Riot Grrrl HistoryThis article focuses on the 1990s zines made by women inspired by the riot grrrl bands and movement. They were incredibly influential in the history of zines, and zines like this are still being made today!
- Punk, Politics and British (fan)zines, 1976–84: ‘While the world was dying, did you wonder why?’This article also offers a look into the history of zines, but in a different time and place. Here you can learn about British fanzines.
Other definitions
Wikipedia: a small-circulation self-published work of original or appropriated texts and images, usually reproduced via a copy machine
Merriam-Webster: a noncommercial often homemade or online publication usually devoted to specialized and often unconventional subject matter