Harrison Hills City School District is proud to announce the launch of a new bibliotherapy library, spearheaded by school counselor Rob Richards. This program provides students with a unique resource to support their mental health and emotional well-being through the power of literature.

Drawing from his experience in a prior career within the corrections system, Richards implemented this program with great success among inmates, demonstrating its effectiveness in fostering self-awareness, resilience, and personal growth. “This program is about more than just books,” Richards said. “It’s about helping students see themselves in the stories they read and finding strength and hope through those connections.” Now, he is bringing this proven approach to Harrison Central students, offering them an opportunity to connect with books and explore meaningful life lessons.

The bibliotherapy library includes a diverse collection of fiction and nonfiction books tailored to various reading levels. These carefully selected titles allow students to see reflections of their own struggles and triumphs in the characters and stories, creating a therapeutic and empathetic connection. Whether students are navigating anxiety, grief, self-esteem challenges, or other personal hurdles, these books serve as a bridge to understanding and healing.

The bibliotherapy program is part of the district’s comprehensive approach to student mental health support. In addition to the school counseling office’s ongoing services, Harrison Hills partners with Hazel Health for telehealth counseling and Southeast Healthcare, which provides on-site mental health resources daily.

“We are committed to providing comprehensive mental health resources to meet the needs of our students,” said Superintendent Duran Morgan. “The bibliotherapy library is a unique and impactful way to help students connect with their emotions and develop valuable coping skills through the power of storytelling. Combined with our other mental health services, we are ensuring that every student has the support they need to thrive.”

This project was funded through bonus dollars received from a recent gas and oil lease with Ascent Resources. To learn more about the Bonus Dollars initiative and the bibliotherapy library, visit hhcsd.org.