Amateur press associations (APAs) can be defined as organizations or groups comprising individuals who have a shared interest in amateur journalism and publish their works collectively in a printed or digital format. APAs are typically made up of amateur writers, artists, cartoonists, poets, and other creative individuals who produce content for their own enjoyment and that of their fellow members.
The purpose of APAs is to foster an exchange of ideas, feedback, and support among members who share a common passion for self-publishing. Members submit their individual contributions to a central editor who compiles and collates the material into a publication, which is often distributed to all members. APAs are primarily focused on the amateur realm, meaning that participants are not professional writers or artists, but rather enthusiasts who engage in creative activities for personal satisfaction rather than monetary gain.
These associations often provide a valuable platform for members to showcase their creative works, experiment with different genres or writing styles, and improve their skills through feedback from other members. The publications circulated by APAs typically cover a wide range of topics and may include articles, stories, poetry, essays, artwork, reviews, and personal reflections.
Amateur press associations have a rich and longstanding history dating back to the late 19th century when the first such organization, The National Amateur Press Association (NAPA), was established in the United States. Since then, APAs have flourished and diversified, with countless groups forming around the world, both in print and digital formats.
