The Legacy of Old Sci-Fi Communities: Exploring Fanzines and Early Amateur Press

Introduction

The golden age of science fiction and fantasy saw the rise of a vibrant community of old sci-fi enthusiasts who contributed significantly to the cultural landscape through their creative works. One notable aspect of these communities was the proliferation of fanzines, which served as a medium for sharing stories, original works, and commentary. These early amateur publications carried forward the spirit of the amateur press that thrived before the advent of the internet. As these communities begin to pass on, preserving these works has become a pressing concern.

Darkstar Science Fiction and Fantasy Library

One organization that is dedicated to preserving these early works is the Darkstar Science Fiction and Fantasy Library, a student-run library at UC San Diego. This library holds an extensive collection of pre-internet science fiction and fantasy publications from the 1940s onwards. Working closely with the Internet Archive, Darkstar is leading efforts to digitize their collection. They have partnered with Geisel Library’s document preservation team to deacidify and preserve the physical condition of their approximately 2000 pulps and genre novels.

While progress has been hampered by the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Darkstar's efforts are anticipated to bear fruit by mid-to-late 2021. Although the majority of their collection consists of professional publications such as Astounding, they also have a considerable number of fanzines. The Internet Archive has already scanned many issues of these magazines, but the materials from Darkstar will significantly extend their collection.

Merril Collection of Science Fiction Speculation Fantasy

The Merril Collection of Science Fiction Speculation Fantasy is one of the largest and best-curated archives dedicated to early science fiction and fantasy literature. This collection provides a comprehensive look into the evolution of the genre and the contributions of early amateur press efforts.

NESFA Press

For those interested in preserving and digitizing their own collections, NESFA Press, the publishing arm of the New England Science Fiction Association, may be a valuable partner. They have a strong track record of supporting and archiving the works of early sci-fi and fantasy enthusiasts.

Conclusion

The legacy of old sci-fi communities is rich and multifaceted, with fanzines playing a crucial role. Efforts by organizations such as Darkstar, the Merril Collection, and NESFA Press are crucial in ensuring these works are preserved for future generations. As technology continues to evolve, the importance of digitizing these publications grows, offering new opportunities for scholars, enthusiasts, and the general public to access and appreciate this unique aspect of science fiction and fantasy history.