Los Angeles Public Library Zine Collection Policy

What is a zine?

Zines are self-published works that have a limited print run. Zines are usually created with the intention of sharing one’s thoughts, feelings, creativity, experiences, and knowledge with others. Zines are part of a DIY (do-it-yourself) culture that often includes people from marginalized communities or those without access to mainstream publishing options.

Mission

The LAPL Zine Collection aims to provide our patrons with access to a variety of current, local zines with diverse viewpoints and subject matter. Our intention is to support zine authorship, diversity, and DIY culture, and to encourage zine makers to submit their publications to the collection.

General Guidelines

Cataloging

Every zine in the collection is fully cataloged so that patrons can place holds on items and have them delivered to the Los Angeles Public Library Central Library and 72 branches.

Donations

The library accepts donations of zines, but cannot guarantee that donated items will be added to the collection. Zines added to the collection should be in good condition. Library staff will assess donations according to the Library’s materials selection criteria and may use their discretion to decline a donation based on the number of items donated, content, or condition. Please limit your donation to 10 copies of one zine.

Withdrawals

The zine collection is not archived. Our zine collection is available to the public. Keep in mind that when donating your zine, it might get lost or stolen.

Do you have any questions on how to submit your zines? Please email zines@lapl.org