Fanzines, Fan Clubs

A fanzine (see also: zine) is a nonprofessional publication produced by fans of a particular subject for the pleasure of others who share their interest. more...

The term was coined in October 1940 by Russ Chauvenet and first popularized within science fiction fandom, although self-published fanzine-like publications did not originate with science fiction fandom.

Fanzines are not funded or subsidized by commercial or public entities; publishers, editors and contributors receive no financial compensation. Fanzines are traditionally circulated for at most a nominal cost to defray postage or production expenses, in exchange for similar publications, or contributions for publication , or free of charge to any interested parties.

Some fanzines have evolved into professional publications, and many professional writers were first published in fanzines and even contributed to them after establishing a professional reputation. The term fanzine has, in recent times, come to be confused with "fan magazine", but the latter term refers to professionally-produced media intended for fan consumption.

Origin

The origins of "fanzines" are obscure, but can be traced at least back to 19th-century literary groups in the United States which formed amateur press associations to publish collections of amateur fiction, poetry and commentary. These publications were produced first on small tabletop printing presses, often by students.

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