AGAINST THE ODDS

Andrew WangIndiana UniversityARLIS/NA + VRAPoster Session

2016

D E V E L O P I N G+

P R O M O T I N GA N E W Z I N E C O L L E C T I O N

Andrew Wang is a grad student in the arthistory and library science programs atIndiana University. Plagued withchronic dissatisfaction, he constantly longsfor both his big city hometown [Philadelphia]and a future life as a recluse in themountains. For the time being, he spends hisdays working non-stop, leaving trails ofunfinished art projects, and spending qualitytime with his plants. He has a weakness forpizza, donuts, snacks [in general], and dogs.Though Andrew has worked as a Chineserestaurant server, a security guard, and aphoto technician, he aspires to be a[nart] librarian.

aandrewwangg@gmail.com aandrewwangg.wordpress.com | @aandrewwangg

TABLE OF CONTENTS

I – INTRODUCTIONII – COLLECTION DEVELOPMENT

III – CATALOGINGIV – REFLECTION

Please check out the GLBT Library’s Zine Collection LibGuidefor more information

and updates:

http://iub.libguides.com/c.php?g=389978

Current GLBT Library Coordinators can be

reached at:

glbtlib@Indiana.edu

WHO: Andrew Wang, [former] GLBT LibraryCoordinator, Indiana University

WHAT: Develop and promote new zinecollection

WHY: The GLBT Library has not mergedwith Indiana University’s librarycatalog [IUCAT]. One of the primaryreasons cited was the GLBT Library’slack of “unique” materials.

GOALS

1. Continue to develop unique collection for possibility of merging with IUCAT in the future

2. Expand outreach efforts to the community [especially the student body]

INTRODUCTION

IIV

The development of the zine collection was aproactive effort in attempting to merge thecollection with IUCAT. In truth, I would havelikely pursued the development of a zinecollection regardless of the circumstances. Istrongly believe in providing a platform forminority communities. Moreover, I believe many ofthe GLBT Library’s patrons can more readilyconnect to titles in this new collection. In anycase, the GLBT Library now has a collection oftitles not found anywhere else on campus.

One of the most significant aspects of thisproject was my outreach activity. Housed withinthe GLBT SSS Office, the GLBT Library remainsunknown to many community members. By having apresence in their space — virtually online andphysically in their classes and residential halls— they are given “personal invitations” to use ourlibrary space.

LESSONS LEARNED

• If you request funding, be aware of officialprocedures. Monetary donations have stricterrules, especially when they are inter-departmental transfers.

• Develop long term strategic plans formarketing programs. Social media campaignssound intuitive, but they must have structure.

• I wish I could have developed a submission-based zine for the GLBT Library in order tofurther engage our patrons in the collectiondevelopment process!

REFLECTIONS

Zines can be acquired from a variety ofdistributors [distros]. It is generally better topurchase directly from the creators [zinesters] toensure they are being compensated for their work.In my process, I acquired titles from non-profitshops (online and in person), printed them forfree from zine publishing sites, and from Etsy.

Printed Matter | printedmatter.orgBoxcar Books | boxcarbooks.org

Untorelli Press | untorellipress.noblogs.orgEtsy

$ FUNDING $

There is no fixed budget for collectiondevelopment, as it is highly dependent on thegreater interests of the GLBT Student SupportServices [GLBT SSS]. The collection receivedfunding and donations from librarians, the GenderStudies Department, friends, peers, and myself.

COLLECTIONDEVELOPMENT

II III

• Adapted from xZINECOREx[http://zinelibraries.info/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Zinecore-Zine-Flats1.pdf]

• Consulted Head of Database Management for metadata standards

• Continued cataloging and shelving standards establish by my predecessors

CATALOGING

OUTREACH

I created a finding aid that was promoted throughsocial media + the GLBT SSS website. The findingaid lists each issue in the collection, as well asits creator[s], call number, and date ofpublication. Additionally, I created a controlledvocabulary for popular subject matter to allowpatrons to browse more narrowly.

[The finding aid has since been adapted as aLibGuide by my successors:http://iub.libguides.com/c.php?g=389978]

I also collaborated with two instructors toprovide a hands-on zine-making workshop. One ofthe instructors required a zine as a component ofhis course’s final project. I provided apresentation on the history of zines and theirrelevance today. The other instructor demonstratedsimple paper-folding techniques. Students createdtheir own zine prototypes using paper, scissors,glue sticks, and bone folders.

My second program was a leisurely film screeningof Labyrinth in the residential library center atthe residence hall that houses the queer thematicliving community, “Spectrum.” I laid outbrochures, how-to guides for zine-making, andcraft supplies, and then provided a briefintroduction to the GLBT Library’s services,including the new Zine Collection. Incollaboration with the Residential Programs andServices Libraries, the GLBT SSS provided freecoffee and snacks.