Julie Andrews signs books in Schaumburg

Julie Andrews lit up Border's bookstore in Schaumburg Wednesday night, signing copies of her new book, "Julie Andrews' Collection of Poems, Songs and Lullabies," for three hours and patiently speaking with each person in line.

Katie Nabong, general manager of Border's in Schaumburg, said the store gave out 100 wristbands in advance, but it was impossible to know how many people Andrews actually met, since people with books often had children, grandparents or friends in tow.

Schaumburg was Andrews' last stop on her current book-signing tour and Nabong said the atmosphere inside Borders was unusual, to say the least.

"People were very emotional," about meeting Andrews, and they all had stories about the impact her movies and songs had on their lives.

"It was a powerful experience for everyone," Nabong said.

The store held the signing on the second floor, and had to request that everyone in line put away their cell phones, since Andrews' contract stipulated no photos.

"She was very, very kind," said Nabong. "She spent time with everybody who had a book signed."

Borders low-keyed the advance press - they had posters up in the store and all Borders Rewards members got an e-mail - but even so, the phones were jammed for three days before Andrews arrived.