Children attending public schools in Cleveland County have a reading source they can turn to in order to learn more about mental illness and behavioral issues.

Tuesday, Norman Alliance of Mental Illness executive director Michelle Marisle and board members distributed about 40 books on mental health to the Norman Public Library and school libraries within the county.

Marisle said NAMI, a United Way agency, is dedicated to improving attitudes toward mental illness and improving services for mentally ill people. The nonprofit organization also strives to promote mental health and supports research on the topic.

She said NAMI tries to provide area schools with literature on mental health.

"It will give our children the opportunity to learn about mental illness topics that affect a variety of people," she said.

Susan Gregory, Norman Public Library branch manager, said she appreciates NAMI's help.

"These books are some of the most heavily used in our children's and adult collections," she said. "People are hungry about any information they can get on mental health or behavioral disorders."

Gregory said the books are checked out almost immediately once NAMI donates them to the library.

Norman Public Schools superintendent Dr. Joe Siano met NAMI representatives Tuesday at the public library. Siano expressed his gratitude towards NAMI for their donations.

"We appreciate the support of NAMI and its donation of books to our libraries," Siano said. "Their efforts in the community are appreciated and the commitment to the school district is impactful."

NAMI treasurer Ruby Bowden said she hopes the books can help those who need questions answered.

"I'm just hoping it will help some people where illness has come into the family and they need help. They can check out books easier than talking to someone else," Bowden said.

Meghan McCormick 366-3539 mmccormick@normantranscript.com