Ola Mae "Book" Jackson was a woman of immense strength, resilience, and wisdom. Born in 1932 in the small town of Madison, Georgia, she grew up in the depths of rural poverty. Like many children of her time, she faced harsh realities that required her to put family needs above her own aspirations. By the sixth grade, Ola Mae had to leave school to work on the family farm, sacrificing her education to help support her loved ones.

Though she never learned to read, Ola Mae’s life was a testament to the power of perseverance and hope. At just 5 feet, she worked hard...often time 2 or 3 jobs as a time to raise her 3 children and buy her own home.

She dreamed of a brighter future, not just for herself, but for her family. Her inability to achieve her full potential due to illiteracy fueled a lifelong passion for education. She never stopped preaching its importance to her children and grandchildren, urging them to pursue knowledge as the key to opportunity and self-reliance.

She was affectionately known as "Book" by her family and friends. Though we don't quite know why the nickname, it stands as a poignant reminder of her deep belief in the transformative power of education. Her legacy is one of determination and unwavering love—a legacy we honor through the literacy foundation in her name.

By placing books in the hands of young parents and children, we hope to carry forward her dream of empowering generations through literacy and learning. Ola Mae’s story is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, one person’s vision and values can create ripples of impact that last for generations.