Special to the Chronicle
Former Gov. Nikki Haley’s legacy is growing.
Her Original Six Foundation’s My First Library will serve 16 SC schools’ students in the highest-need areas with summer reading books for at-home libraries.
In many cases, these will be the 1st books in many children’s homes.
“Students who can’t read by the 3rd grade are 4 times more likely to drop out of school,” the former Lexington resident said.
“That’s why these libraries are so important. We’re telling these kids they matter, we’ve got their back, and we are going to make sure they have the tools to succeed.” 
Haley is founder and chair of the foundation and a former United Nations ambassador for President Trump.
She said My First Library will help more than 1,250 students in 5K with 12,500 new books to get them ready for 1st grade. 
My First Library book fairs will be held in 8 school districts in Bamberg, Barnwell, Florence, Kershaw, Marion, Richland and Union counties at schools the Department of Education called high poverty areas.
Established in 2016 the program allows kindergartners to improve reading skills during the summer.
To donate, see www.originalsixfoundation.org.