TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) - Kansas First Lady Mary Brownback wants everyone to pick up a book.

The First Lady was guest speaker Thursday at the Topeka Rotary Club's meeting. She used the time to promote this year's Kansas Book Festival.

Mrs. Brownback talked about the activities surrounding the event. It takes place from 9 am to 4 pm Saturday, Sept. 15, at the Kansas Historical Society in Topeka.

The Book Festival ties into the Rotary's efforts to promote literacy in Kansas.

The First Lady says the Book Festival builds enthusiasm for the written word. She says people get excited when they meet the authors and those who are interested in writing themselves find encouragement.

This is the second year for the festival. Mrs. Brownback says future plans include adding writing workshops.