I have been a Believer subscriber for over ten years and rarely have I thrown away or recycled an issue even though I am nonplussed about the publication. In one (and in the most important) way I've always found each issue containing some interview, feature or essay that introduced me to a new writer or filmmaker which enriched my cultural capital. Funny thing is that when I read them on the subway, I always felt that people --given the name of the periodical -- were suspicious that I was on the verge of proselyting. Adding to my anxiety, I always had the insecurity that The Believers publishers were always “too hip” for someone like me. Moreover, their subscription history is spotty at best. There was a longtime hiatus of issues when then they changed owners and they still have trouble managing renewals.
Last year at the Decatur Book Festival, I took some of the stock, displayed in handsomely on a rack and sold it at my Destination: Books booth finding homes for about 20 to 30 issues. I would use the salesperson pitch of: “Take your change in Believers?”
But alas there is no DBF this year for Destination: Books. I would feel guilty just tossing them so I am try to find homes for them and free up some shelf space by making them available online.
With a few exceptions (which I have flagged) they are in good shape considering their age and this is also a tribute to the quality printing of the originals.
For purchasing details and a list of which past issues are available visit The Believer Catalog Page.