A collection of signed photographs of the Big Banders are featured in an auction held at the biannual Fair. The collection was compiled by David Glatfelter who worked in maintenance and as a “goffer” at the Valencia Ballroom on North George Street in York, Pennsylvania during the late 1930s and early ‘40s. This period was the peak of the Big Band Era with many big names playing at Valencia. While working there, Glatfelter collected many autographs.

“This isn’t just popular culture,” Pam Lewin, co-owner of the York Book and Paper Fair said. “This is history. And it is history that comes from York. This is going to be an important event.” The auction represents only part of the events planned for that day. Authors and artists will also be appearing at the spring event is scheduled to run from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM on Saturday, April 4, 2009 in the Old Main building at the York Expo Center.

Last fall Pam and her husband Jim Lewin bought the York Book and Paper Fair with plans to expand the categories within the event. Pam has pointed out that attendees are readers and collectors and that interest in categories usually leads to other categories. She said, “So, while the emphasis of the York Book and Paper Fair will remain on antiquarian and collectible books and paper, other areas will also be explored.”

Comics, collectible records, and related memorabilia were added to the Fair last fall, and this spring autographs and music related pieces are within the event. Over 50 dealers exhibits and more than 600 people were at the Fair last October. Pam anticipates an increase from both groups for the upcoming event. “We’re interested in the traditions that stretch back the 20 plus years since the Fair’s founding,” Lewin said. “And, we’re also interested in innovations. We think there are opportunities here to explore and celebrate both.”

You can find details on the show at yorkbookandpaper.com.