That's Rad: San Francisco Bay Area Zine Culture

That's Rad: San Francisco Bay Area Zine Culture presents zines from various collections held by the San Francisco Public Library starting in the early 1960s and onwards.   

Rooted in 19th-century political pamphlets and 1930s science-fiction fanzines, zines have emerged into a powerful medium for independent expression and cultural exchange. The DIY (“do it yourself”) spirit of the 1970s and ‘80s fueled the creation of an array of diverse zines, spanning themes from punk music to skate culture and queer identity. Characterized by their underground nature, zines have played a pivotal role in amplifying marginalized voices and documenting social and political movements while fostering a sense of community by challenging dominant narratives. 

In capturing the creativity and energy of the movements they represent, these printed works serve as time capsules that spotlight key cultural and artistic trends.