The library hosted the first lunch and learn of 2025, a zine workshop, on Thursday, Jan. 16. At the workshop, fine arts teacher Nathanial Dinh taught students how to create zines, including making collages, drawings, writing and comics.
“I like to make zines as a part of my artistic practice,” Dinh said. “I wanted to let other people know about the medium so they can make and share their creations. The best part about zines is that you do not need anyone’s permission to express yourself.”
A zine (short for magazine or fanzine) is an independently made publication that can be related to poetry, creative writing, photography, art, comics, politics and more. Dinh taught students how to make an 8-page zine using a single sheet of paper. Students also learned about the history of zine.
“I think it’s really cool,” co-librarian Amelia Lewis said. “Mr. Dinh has been talking to us for a couple of years about zines and how much he loves putting them together. I thought it was so cool that he was able to come in and set up that workshop for us for the students. We love to do art projects and we love coordinating with our teachers so I think that makes it even better that it was something teacher-like.”
Students who attended enjoyed making the collages, even those who didn’t previously know what zines were.
“Zines can be made by anyone to express themselves,” Dihn said. “You do not necessarily have to be good at drawing or writing to make one. Having a subject or idea you are passionate about is most important.”