AUBURN — Janet H. Gibson, Lewiston-Auburn Community Little Theatre’s historian and archivist, has compiled a history of the theater now celebrating its 71st season.

The book covering CLT’s beginnings many decades ago through to the present features head shots of actors, a large photo collection of plays performed on-stage, clippings of special events and interesting memorabilia.

Gibson’s amusing anecdotes of behind-the-scenes activity and glimpses into what happened in the theater’s early stages make for entertaining reading.

Gibson has been a member of CLT since 1952, joining with the Orchesis dance group led by JoAnne Prince. She has been active in the theater ever since, serving on the board of directors and volunteering many years in the box office. She has appeared in several CLT productions, most recently in “Crazy for You.”

She is also founder/director of the CLT Readers Theater, which has been performing at senior housing and nursing homes gratis since 2009.

Gibson spent three years researching the book and conducting interviews with many old-time actors and directors.

“A History of Lewiston-Auburn Community Little Theater” was published earlier this month by students in the graphic communications program at Central Maine Community College. Working with text, photos and other documents provided by Gibson, Lina Biggers of Bridgton did the layout and photo editing and designed the cover. A second-year student in the program, Biggers works as an intern with J.S. McCarthy Printers in Augusta.

Proceeds from the sale of the book, $20, will go to CLT. Mailing can be arranged for $25, which includes packaging and postage. Contact Gibson at 783-2501 or Jgibson34@myfairpoint.net.

Gibson has scheduled a number of book signings:

* May 14 at 9 a.m., MeAct Festival at Great Falls Art Center, Academy Street, Auburn

* May 14 at 11:30 a.m., Percy’s Burrow, Auburn Mall

* May 17 at 7 p.m., Lewiston Public Library

* June 9, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Business to Business Trade Show, Androscoggin Bank Colisee, Lewiston

* June 17-18-19-23-24-25-26, before and during intermission at performances of CLT’s “Wait Until Dark,” Schaeffer Theatre at Bates College, Lewiston (CLT will perform at different sites starting in June due to renovations and construction at the theater.)

* June 23 at noon, Auburn Public Library