The purpose of the Zine Collection at the Squamish Public Library is to provide the community with a variety of contemporary zines across a diversity of viewpoints and subject areas. Through this collection, the library also aims to encourage expression and creativity within the community.

The collection prioritizes zines made locally, and zines relevant to local issues, topics, and events.

What is a Zine?

A zine (pronounced “zeen”) is a DIY, low-budget, self-made, small publication. In a zine, anyone can write, print, and distribute their story, ideas, or art however they want to. Unlike traditional publishing, zines are the final product of the individual creator or group and are often copied and distributed at low cost using photocopiers.

There is no one commonly accepted definition of a zine, but for the purpose of our collection we define zines as:

  • Self-published.
  • Published in small quantities.
  • Not published solely for commercial profit.
  • A physical product. Some zines are published virtually, but we collect print copies only.

Selection Criteria

Selection of materials will follow the guiding principles in our Library Collection Policies (Policy Manual, Section 5). When selecting zines specifically, we will also consider:

Inclusion:

  • Zines that promote inclusivity, equity, and representation of diverse voices, cultures, and experiences.

Local Representation:

  • Priority will be given to zines created by local artists and those that highlight issues, topics, and events specific to the local community.

Relevance:

  • Zines that address current or enduring social, cultural, and political issues.

Physical Condition:

  • Zines that are in good physical condition.

Size:

  • Preference for zines no bigger than 5.5” x 8.5”.

Circulation

Zines will be available for browsing and reading in the library only, and not available to check-out. Zines are all fully catalogued and browsable here.

Browse Zines:

Donations 

Are you a zine-makers with a zine to donate to the library? We will happily consider including it in the Zine Collection! The library accepts zine donations but cannot guarantee that donated items will be added to the collection. Zines added to the collection must be in good condition and fit within our broader Library Collections Policies. 

Discards 

To keep the collection useful, the discarding of library materials is as important as the initial selection. This collection is not archival in nature and the library may discard zines that are deemed no longer appropriate for the collection based on relevancy and/or condition. 

Questions 

Please email library@squamish.ca for more info.