SAN ANTONIO — In order to address the scarcity of access to feminine products, San Antonio Public Libraries is taking what some may call a controversial approach. But it's not the products themselves that have people talking; it's where you'll find them.
Haley Holmes is the interim assistant to the director for San Antonio Public Libraries.
“There is unfortunately a bit of stigma around periods," Holmes said. "And so, by having it available wherever you are in the restroom, then that sort of makes it normal.”
It’s called the Menstrual Equity Program, and it's aimed at tackling period poverty – or a lack of access to hygiene products – with free products in the library. That includes making them accessible in all restrooms, including facilities for men.
“There are also caregivers who may want to access those materials," she said. "So that they can give them to someone else who is in need. Period products are expensive, and there are people who can’t afford them, who need them.”
Holmes said it can pose a health hazard to use the products for longer than what is suggested. So they're asking the public: If you need one, only take one.
The program does not launch until Nov. 1, but dispensers are already filled at the Central Library downtown.
“Just like we stock the bathrooms with toilet paper, paper towels, soap to wash your hands," Holmes said. "Having products that you can use during your period, it’s just part of biology."
SAPL will have the dispensers stocked in restrooms at each of its 30 locations.