What Happens to a Magazine's Back Issues When They Stop Publishing?

The end of a magazine's publishing journey doesn't mark the end of its content. In fact, the management of back issues can significantly impact how a publication's legacy is preserved and its content remains accessible to readers.

Archiving: Preserving Content for Future Reference

Many magazines opt for archiving, making their back issues available for future reference. This can be achieved through physical copies stored in libraries or digital archives hosted on the magazine's website. Archiving ensures that the content remains accessible to researchers, enthusiasts, and the public, fostering a deeper appreciation for the publication's history.

Digital Sales: Gaining Revenues Through Back Issue Purchases

Some magazines choose to monetize their back issues by selling them digitally. Readers can purchase individual issues or opt for subscriptions to access a complete archive. This strategy not only preserves the content but also generates additional revenue for the publication. It caters to both casual readers and dedicated collectors who value the publication's historical significance.

Library Collections: Ensuring Accessibility for Researchers

Back issues are often donated to libraries or institutions that maintain collections of periodicals. This ensures that the content remains accessible to researchers, scholars, and the general public, contributing to academic and cultural pursuits. Libraries play a crucial role in preserving the publication's legacy and making it available for future reference.

Collector Sales: Appeal to Enthusiasts and Collectors

Back issues can also be sold through online marketplaces or specialized retailers. This strategy appeals to collectors and enthusiasts who value the publication's historical and collectible nature. By selling these issues, magazines can tap into a niche market and preserve their content for a dedicated audience.

Destruction or Recycling: Managing Unsold Physical Copies

In cases where unsold physical copies are numerous, magazines may choose to destroy or recycle them. This approach is often taken when there is no demand or space to store the issues. Recycling the materials is environmentally friendly and helps reduce waste.

Transition to Online Platforms: Expanding Access Without Print Costs

If the magazine has a digital presence, back issues might be transitioned to an online platform, making them accessible without the costs associated with print. This transition ensures that the content remains available to readers without the need for physical storage or distribution.

Publisher Strategy and Back Issue Management

When it comes to handling back issues, the specific outcome often depends on the magazine's popularity, its publisher's strategy, and the demand for past issues. Publishers typically keep around 50 unsold magazines per issue for later sale. Issues that remain unsold after a year are often sent out for recycling.

Legal Considerations

Back issues are part of the legal entity of the business. If the business declares bankruptcy, the back issues may become the property of the creditors. However, if the magazine simply shuts down, the back issues still remain the property of the owner. They could accept a reasonable offer for the rights to the content.

As it stands, copyrights are determined by the terms of the contract between the author and the magazine. Unless the contract specifies that rights would revert to the author in the event of the magazine's closure, the copyright remains with the publication. It's essential for authors to be aware of the copyright permissions granted in their contracts and to fully educate themselves before signing.

For author protection, it's crucial to avoid giving up all rights if possible. However, in many cases, the financial benefits of the payment might outweigh the risks of losing those rights. Magazines-owned by publishing groups may retain rights, so always read the contract carefully and understand the rights you're giving up.

By understanding the various options available and the legal framework governing copyrights, publishers can make informed decisions about managing their back issues effectively.