I think this can be solved by allowing html in weblist descriptions - this way the publisher can link out to resources related to the list itself.

Adding links to apply to an entire list is my suggestion, a good idea in my opinion (obviously), but not imperative. With that caveat out of the way, some links apply to an entire list, not just a particular item (for instance the official Aerosmith site on a list of Aerosmith songs). Perhaps even links to related lists on the site. Seems to me these overall weblinks would show near the top of each list as well on each item.