Victoria Baths Fanzine Convention, Manchester: Mass participation and collaboration

The second Victoria Baths Fanzine Convention will look at how the virtual world is allowing networks of zine makers to share publications, news and experiences all over the world. Talks will include an exploration of the establishment of zine libraries (growing physical and online archives of self-published material comprising printed matter of different genres sent in by self-publishers all over the world) by Rotherham Zine Library, and collaborative publications.

Visitors will also be able to take tours of the building, browse and buy zines, and take part in workshops to make their own zine or contribute to a collective effort that will compile material into a collaborative Victoria Baths Fanzine. The Convention will include a screening of Salford Zine Library's 2011 film Self Publishers of the World Take-over, which features self-publishers from all over the world talking about their work. The Fanzine Convention ties in with 2012, International Year of Co-operatives, looking at the opportunities for self-publishers to form printing and publishing collectives, and will feature input from Leeds-based Footprint Workers' Co-operative

Stalls will cost £10. Fanzine-makers (individuals and groups), self-publishing and printing collectives, artists' book makers, independent magazines and representatives from book arts and illustration degree courses are invited to have a stall. To register your interest fill in this short form: www.formstack.com/forms/?1147834-b2nNCHBcVB

If you would be interested in doing a talk, running a workshop or volunteering to help out on the day, please emailNatalie.Rose.Bradbury@googlemail.com