2004 Illinois Authors Book Fair

A SPECTACULAR BOOK FAIR WEEKEND!

The Illinois State Library hosted one of its most successful Illinois Authors Book Fair weekends ever March 26-27, 2004. More than 150 supporters attended a Friday night dinner honoring the participating authors. Featured authors Erik Larson, Elizabeth Berg, Robert Hartley and Catherine Gourley addressed an enthusiastic audience. Proceeds from the dinner benefitted the Illinois Center for the Book and help the State Library purchase new books for its Illinois Authors collection.

On Saturday, nearly 4,000 patrons visited the Book Fair, enjoying some outstanding panel discussions and author workshops, a raffle and silent auction, an onsite bookstore, and book appraisals by Tom Joyce of Home and Garden Television's The Appraisal Fair. Children were entertained by storytellers, face painting, puppet making, crafts, clowns, free popcorn, balloons and Toby the Tire. Many children were anxious to have their photo taken with the Easter Bunny. State Library Director Jean Wilkins noted from visiting with patrons that many of those attending had never set foot in the State Library, but promised to return often in the future. Thanks to everyone who made the Book Fair a success! And mark your calendars now--the 2005 Illinois Authors Book Fair weekend is March 4-5!