For over 50 years, the Society to Preserve and Encourage Radio Drama, Variety and Comedy (SPERDVAC) has worked to ensure that classic radio programs from the 1930’s – 1960’s are protected and accessible for generations to come. The current library of over 100,000 programs includes many rare programs and full-seasons of shows from radio icons such as Fred Allen, Bob Hope, Red Skelton.
Founded in 1974, as an all-volunteer organization, SPERDVAC works on multiple tracks.
- SPERDVAC collects, preserves, digitizes and restores classic radio content from a variety of physical media, some of which is so fragile it can only be handled by the most experienced technicians using state-of-the-art equipment.
- SPERDVAC makes restored content available online for the public to enjoy and download. Free access is available to the public and SPERDVAC members also receive a bi-monthly magazine, Radiogram.
- SPERDVAC’s large collection of original radio scripts are loaned to non-profit theatre and community organizations for live, in-person recreations – another means of bringing classic radio to today’s audiences.
SPERDVAC has also preserved audio and video recordings of its annual conventions, featuring actors, writers and directors of classic radio programs.
SPERDVAC is a tax-exempt, 501-c-3 organization incorporated in California. Donations are tax-deductible to the full extent allowed by law. An 11-member Board of Directors manages the organization.
Non-Profit Disclaimer & Initiatives
SPERDVAC is a 501(c)3 Non-Profit Educational Public Benefit Corporation with Six Goals
- To provide the finest collection of quality radio programs that members may listen to and enjoy in their SPERDVAC online collections.
- To seek out and honor the people who made radio’s “Golden Age” possible.
- To promote and encourage drama, variety and comedy programs—old and new—on radio today.
- To collect and maintain for members and other interested people, a library of radio history and to use this material in the publication of a “newsletter” or special brochures in preparation of an accurate and complete account of radio history from its earliest days to the present.
- To contribute to the support of non-commercial radio stations interested in and aiding the goals of the society, including broadcasting “old-time” radio programs.
- To alert members to trends in drama, variety and comedy broadcasting; and to publish special radio program listings and news releases to inform members and the general public.
