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FPL
Watertown Free Public Library
Library Director
Leone E. Cole
TO: Trustees
FROM: Caitlin Browne, Assistant Director
DATE: March 23, 2021
RE: Collection Development Policy Amendment for Zines
We are adding zines to the library collection. Zines are independently published works that
could include text, photos, and illustrations, often reproduced using a photocopier. Most zines
are published in small runs and then distributed and swapped by those in the zine
community. Topics can be broad in scope, from politics to feminism to poetry to personal
journal entries. Most anyone has the ability to make a zine. Once reserved for the underground,
zines can now be found in many different libraries across the country.
WFPL collects zines because it is important to document contemporary popular culture, making
them important primary source material for future library patrons. Zines also give voice to
ordinary people. By collecting zines, the Library creates access to works by authors from
populations and communities frequently underrepresented in libraries. By offering unique and
inspiring materials, library users will gain a broader appreciation for their community and
library and feel empowered to contribute their own self -published zines to the collection.
To build this collection we are purchasing zines from creators, distros, and donation. Because of
the personal nature of some zines we would like to amend the Gift and Donation Policy section
of the current Collection Development policy, highlighted below.
Gift and Donation Policy
The WFPL welcomes donations of books and other library materials that are in good condition
except for textbooks, magazines, or encyclopedias. All donations become the property of the
Library. Materials may be added to the collection if it falls within the scope of the Library's
collection development policy.
The Library reserves the right to utilize donated materials in whatever way best benefits the
collection and services. No donations are accepted unless given to the Library without
restriction. Donations may be added to the collection, sold with the proceeds to benefit the
Library, passed on to other libraries, or discarded if necessary.
123 Main Street Watertown, MA 02472-4478
617.972.6434 watertownlib.org
The library accepts donation of zines from creators and third parties. Zines that are of a highly
personal nature will not be accepted by third party donation unless written permission is
granted by the creator.
The donor is responsible for obtaining an estimate or appraisal of the donated materials for tax
purposes. The Library is unable to assess the value of these items. The donor may request a
letter of acknowledgement from the Library for their donation. Rules and regulations regarding
charitable income tax deductions are available from the Internal Revenue Service.
Gifts of money for the purchase of materials are also welcome. Selection of the materials will
be made by the Director in consultation with the donor within the scope of the Library's
collection development policy. The donor may request that bookplates be placed in/upon the
materials purchased.