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OHSU Health Zine Library

A resource for finding and using zines at OHSU

What is a zine?

 

A zine (ZEEN) is an original, self-published publication with a limited print-run. They often resemble small booklets or pamphlets and are DIY (do-it-yourself) in nature. Zines are usually created with the intent to share thoughts, feelings, experience, and/or knowledge with others rather than profit. Zines are affordable, easy to share and distribute, and provide an avenue for individuals and communities to make their voices heard.

Examples of zines:

        

Goldilocks and the three therapists : a thinly veiled autobiography by Rachel Rowan Olive

How to prep for your colonoscopy without it sucking that much!!! : (By a patient with Crohn's) by Bee Loris

Skin zine. #2, "Problem" by Alyssa Giannini

 

Zine History

Early influences

While the first official zine was created in 1930, the concept of zines arose from early self-published pamphlets, broadsides, and leaflets created by minority and under-represented persons and groups. Some examples include Martin Luther’s 1517 Ninety-Five Theses and Thomas Paine’s 1775 Common Sense.  

Cover image of Thomas Paine's Common Sense

Resources about zines