This zine contains two well researched and very interesting articles. The shorter one brings attention to the monopolization of our public communication, particularly in regards to email and, a century ago, the telegraph. Why have (are) these convenient methods of communication not widely used by all? The second article, which takes up the rest of the issue, is a very engaging read about public scribes in the early 1800s and their eventual demise. The article nicely details the romance of a public scribe setting up outside a post-office with nothing more than a table, two chairs and typewriter and recording messages for those who could not read or write. Both articles are well done and annotated with references. Send a deserving trade. (KJ)
zine, #37, 16 pages / main creator: Dale Spiers / $3 / Box 6830, Calgary, AB, T2P 2E7