Menstral Equity Program

The San Antonio Public Library is in progress on implementing a Menstrual Equity Program. The goal of this initiative is to provide essential resources equitably to all library patrons in response to period poverty.  Period poverty is inadequate access to menstrual products due to financial and other barriers.  We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment and addressing period poverty is one way to achieve this goal.

The Menstrual Equity Program is designed to provide free tampons and pads in every public rest room in library locations.  This is in line with the way our restrooms are stocked with paper towels, soap, and toilet paper and normalizes the availability of tampons and pads in restrooms.  Dispensers in public restrooms assure that these products are available to all users who may need them including menstruating persons themselves, caregivers assisting others, and customers who may be accessing the product on behalf of someone in need.

All public restrooms in library locations will be outfitted with dispensers. This program is being delivered in part through a partnership with the Texas Diaper Bank, as well as through resources within the Library’s existing facilities budget.