Fresh page for local storytellers as Newcastle Libraries launches zine collection

newy.com.au – Local creatives are being invited to share their stories and artistic flair as Newcastle Libraries prepares to launch a dedicated zine collection at its City branch, offering a fresh platform for community voices.

Twenty-year-old illustrator and TAFE student Laura Baker is one of the first contributors to the new “zine zone,” which aims to celebrate self-published works that often fly under the radar of traditional publishing. Zines—small, independently produced booklets—offer an outlet for everything from poetry and photography to personal storytelling and political commentary.

City of Newcastle’s Director Museum Archive Libraries and Learning, Julie Baird, said the new collection honours the region’s rich zine-making legacy and captures the vibrancy of its creative scenes.

“Zines have been part of Newcastle’s artistic and cultural fabric for more than 40 years, especially in youth, music and skate communities,” Ms Baird said. “This collection is about preserving those creative voices and ensuring they remain part of our historical record.”

James Turvey, a longtime zine-maker and library professional, is among those leading the project. Having created zines since he was 14, the 42-year-old says the format allows for unfiltered storytelling and gives creators a way to connect with the community in a tangible, lasting way.

“Zines capture moments that don’t always find a home in mainstream archives. They tell personal, creative or political stories that deserve to be heard,” Mr Turvey said. “Making them accessible through the library is about giving those stories a place to live on.”

For emerging artists like Laura Baker, the initiative opens doors to inspiration and community. “What I love is that there are no rules,” she said. “You can fill a zine with poems, drawings, fiction, or just your thoughts. It’s such an open and exciting format.”

The official launch of the zine collection will take place on Saturday, 5 April 2025, at Newcastle City Library. The event will include a mini zine market, a hands-on workshop, and a panel discussion featuring prominent Australian zine-makers Vanessa Berry, Nina Katzmarski, and Bastian Fox, alongside James Turvey.

Anyone interested in contributing to the collection can drop off their zines at Newcastle City Library ahead of the launch. More details are available via the Newcastle Libraries website.