The next time you need a bathroom break in the middle of scanning and skimming the Wood-Ridge Memorial Library stacks, you’ll find a new addition to the bathrooms – Aunt Flow tampons and pads!
Situated just 15 minutes from New York City, Wood-Ridge Memorial Library serves as a central hub for the town’s population of 10,000.
Erin Hughes started as the WRML Director in January 2020, and just a few months later, Wood-Ridge was closed due to COVID. During this state of flux for the library, Erin began making some changes around Wood-Ridge.
Her first order of business? The bathrooms.
Cue Aunt Flow!
Out With the Old, In With the New
Prior to Aunt Flow, Wood-Ridge had coin-operated dispensers inlaid to the wall. To no one’s surprise, they were out of order. The library’s temporary solution consisted of a donation-based basket of period products from family and friends, but Erin knew that they needed a long-term program in place.
“I was looking for a company that offers high-quality products, uses sustainable methods, and gives back to the community in similar ways that we do.”
With these criteria in mind, children’s librarian Jenny Sudia did some research into period product supplier options and brought Aunt Flow to the table.
Turning the Page on Period Stigma
In December 2021, Aunt Flow dispensers were successfully installed in the library’s two gender-neutral, single-stall bathrooms.
Since the smooth installation process, feedback from guests has been overwhelmingly positive. Many guests have commented to library staff how grateful they are to have Aunt Flow products readily available to them if needed. Erin even mentioned that a few weeks ago, a high school student came running into the library, asking her, “Are you the tampon lady?” Of course, Erin sports that nickname with pride.
“We’re creating goodwill in our community, and on top of that, we’re filling the gap of this need here.”
What’s Next?
Adding Aunt Flow dispensers and period products for free to guests shows a commitment to helping others and will further menstrual equity in the Wood-Ridge area for ALL menstruators. Because of this, Erin is spreading the word of Aunt Flow to businesses, schools, offices and even other libraries.
“It’s a win-win in so many ways. I’m getting what I need from my library, my patrons are getting what they need, people are being sustainable and there’s community interaction involved.”
