Abstract: A system and method are presented that uses a computer database to define data concerning media items, media essays, users, and permissions for the users to modify the media essay data. A media essay data item identifies an ordered set of groupings, with each grouping containing media items and a textual description. The media items in one grouping are limited in number and arranged according to a selected one of a limited number of display patterns. A server uses the permissions data to allow a user to add an additional grouping to a media essay as defined by the essay data item. The additional grouping is originally presented in a distinguished manner at the end of the original groupings when the media essay is displayed. Only a user with sufficient permissions may alter the media essay to include the additional grouping.