What is a zine?
This is a tricky question because it can be many things! Technically it’s an independently made publication “magazine” but the best thing is to go through our collection and learn what a zine is by looking at examples!
A zine, short for fanzine or magazine, is a DIY* subculture self-publication, usually made on paper and reproduced with a photocopier or printer. Zine creators are often motivated by a desire to share knowledge or experience with people in marginalized or otherwise less-empowered communities.”
Barnard College, https://zines.barnard.edu/zine-basics
What is the zine library?
The Toronto Zine Library & Archive (TZL) is a physical library space run by a collective of zine readers, zine makers and librarians who strive to make zines accessible for the Toronto community.
We believe that zines are an important medium of communication, and that they should be cherished, protected, and promoted. Through conducting workshops at our library and abroad and hosting events that promote zines as a method of open communication and free expression, as well as the library space itself, we aim to make this belief a reality.
When did you open?
Established in 2006, when two souls found each other and decided to start a library. It grew from a small mobile collection to a bookcase in the Tranzac into permanent the library space it is today. Over the yers, various volunteers have been involved and contributed to the growth of our collection and the foundation of new services.
What are the library’s hours?
We hold open hours depending on the availability of our volunteers. Currently, our hours are:
Tuesdays from 6pm-8pm
Fridays from 6pm-8pm
Additionally, we offer advance appointments if those hours don’t work for you. Email torontozinelibrary@gmail.com to inquire about appointments, and to ask further questions.
Can I buy zines?
We do not sell zines that are part of our collection. We do sell our own zines made by TZL volunteers (e.g., zine-o-file, or TZL compilation zines). We also offer free/PWYC loot bags full of zines, available during our open hours at the library.
There are many stores in Toronto you can check out and there are also events throughout the year where zinesters sell their art too! Check our Zine Resources guide for listings.
Can I borrow materials?
The Toronto Zine Library is unfortunately not a lending library. Due to volunteer capacity and the niche content of the collection, we are not able to provide lending services from our collection.
Can I donate my zines?
Absolutely! We’re always taking donations, please fill out our zine donation form and have it ready with your zine(s) when you donate. When you fill out the donation form, this ensures your zine is catalogued quickly and accurately.
Currently, we don’t hold on to duplicates. Any duplicates we find will be used to create zine “mystery” loot bags for visitors to take for free or PWYC donation.
Can I donate (money/non-zine items) to the library?
Absolutely! We accept cash donations that we use for buying snacks and materials for our TZL-run workshops and events. Additionally, we accept in-kind donations of specific items, which are listed on our website: https://www.torontozinelibrary.org/support/
We also encourage people to donate to the Tranzac to support the amazing venue that has graciously housed us for years. You can donate directly through this link, attend their fundraising concerts, or become a sustaining member of the tranzac (there’s perks too!).
Can I volunteer?
At this point, we are not actively in need of more volunteers. Thank you for your interest!
How do I follow the library for news and updates?
Right now, the best way to keep in touch with TZL is through our Instagram and/or our website. TZL also has a Facebook and Twitter (X) that we are periodically active on. The best way to stay up-to-date is to sign up for our seasonal newsletter!
https://www.torontozinelibrary.org/
https://www.instagram.com/torontozinelibrary/