LUMBERTON — The Book ‘Em Foundation will hold the second annual Book ‘Em North Carolina Writers Conference and Book Fair at Robeson Community College on Feb. 23 from 9:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.

Headlining the event, which is free to the public, is New York Times and USA Today best-selling author Mary Alice Monroe, who will discuss her path to success and her passion in writing environmental fiction. Also headlining is Hollywood producer Chuck Williams, who will discuss the process of turning books into movies.

The critically acclaimed “Straight Into Darkness,” which is one of the movies Williams produced, will be shown at the Carolina Civic Center Historic Theatre in downtown Lumberton on the evening of Feb. 23, after the writers conference.

The two are more than 75 authors, publishers, literary agents and book promoters at this one-day event. More than 23 authors have won national or international awards. The event includes panel discussions and solo talks on a variety of genres for avid readers or aspiring writers. Authors will also be on hand to chat with fans one-on-one and sign and sell their books.

Proceeds from book sales go toward increasing literacy and reducing crime in Robeson County. Book ‘Em’s slogan is Buy a Book and Stop a Crook. The Inaugural Event raised $9,000 for the Dolly Parton Imagination Library of Robeson County for books for youths ages 1 through 5; Communities In Schools for literacy campaigns for all grade levels; and Friends of the Robeson County Library for literacy projects.

The 2013 event will raise money for the same organizations to further literacy efforts, as well as the Lumberton Police Department for anti-crime measures targeting students.

In addition to the Writers Conference and Book Fair, a Children’s Corner will provide readings and activities for children, and actors will be dressed as storybook characters to help bring books to life.

Lumberton was selected as the location based partly on the prime location at the crossroads of Interstate 95 and U.S. 74, and partly on the outpouring of support from its residents and business leaders.

For information, including a list of all participating authors, literary agents, publishers and book promoters, visit www.bookemnc.org.