USC mascot Cocky, literacy program celebrate 10 years

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — University of South Carolina mascot Cocky and the school’s literacy program are celebrating their donation of 100,000 books to children across the state.

For the past 10 years, student volunteers have traveled with Cocky to disadvantaged schools and local libraries. They read to the children and Cocky helps them understand the importance of a lifetime of reading with friends and family.

Volunteers and organizers are recognizing the anniversary Thursday at the university’s new Alumni Center in Columbia.

The program is supported by the university’s student government and the School of Library and Information Science.

The program’s founding members, student athlete supporters, corporate supporters and community partners are attending.