Razzle is an online magazine that was launched in the 1960s to explore sex and pleasure through articles, art, photography, fiction, poetry, interviews, and more. In its early years, Razzle published print copies but soon transitioned to digital media due to technological advancements and lower costs. In addition to publishing new material, the publishers maintain a digital archive of past issues, preserving the magazine's history for research and reprints. This archival approach safeguards the legacy of the magazine and provides valuable resources for cultural historians, researchers, and scholars.
The digital archive can be accessed from the website's homepage and includes all past issues, including special editions such as anniversary issues or themed collections. It also features searchable tags and categories such as author, genre, issue date, topic, and other keywords to aid research. The publishers carefully curate the archive, selecting which items to include based on their historical significance and relevance to contemporary readers. For example, they may exclude outdated articles or those containing offensive language and imagery.
Digital archiving benefits the public by making it easier to access Razzle's back catalog. Unlike print copies that must be purchased or physically stored, anyone with internet access can view the archive for free. Additionally, digital archives are easily shareable, enabling users to distribute information via social media, email, and other channels. These tools promote discussion, collaboration, and education on sexuality and intimacy. Digital archiving is also sustainable, reducing the need for physical storage space and protecting natural resources used in printing.
Despite these advantages, digital archiving has drawbacks. First, not everyone has reliable internet access or the necessary technology. Second, some people prefer physical copies because of nostalgia or personal attachment. Third, digitization requires time and money to scan, store, and maintain. Finally, some material may lose its meaning or impact over time due to changing attitudes and culture. Nonetheless, digital archiving remains a valuable tool for preserving cultural heritage and promoting creativity, communication, and innovation.
In conclusion, digital archiving safeguards Razzle's legacy while providing public benefits such as accessibility, usability, and sustainability. As technology evolves, this approach will likely become even more critical in exploring sex and pleasure through art, literature, history, and culture.