“"I waited for it to happen, they had explained it to me. I'm part of the club, of this sisterhood. Relieved, I evacuated. Mother Nature visited me. Relief or insecurity? I have my flowers, Long live the pain! Pride in this pain, Inner warmth, Feeling of belonging To this group that makes sense to me. I have my pains, So I'm not in the mood. Broke, The grenade in my belly burst, The underwear of dignity Will be abandoned. The explosion Is under tension Tampons or pads, always changing, No wonder I end the month broke. I feel like I'm throwing money away. Broke Because of this society Lacking sisterhood Where protections are not reimbursed. Monthly, it's a relief To finally see the blood flow. But the money Doesn't last long. You tell me: "Oh dear, it's just your periods!" But you cry over a scratch on your finger. The judgment Lasts too long."
Hainaut Libraries Promote Intimacy and Menstrual Health
A professional study day explored the role of public libraries in raising awareness about sensitive topics like affectivity and menstrual poverty.
By Aurélie Leclercq
••2 min read
AI
Generic image of a diverse group of people in a modern library, some looking at books, others in discussion, in an atmosphere of learning and community.
On October 1st, the Operator for Support of the Province of Hainaut organized a professional study day focused on affectivity and intimacy in public libraries, highlighting their role in raising awareness on taboo subjects.
The event showcased the library's extensive collection on these themes and facilitated the sharing of practical experiences. During a roundtable discussion led by journalist Florence Hainaut, the project "La goutte de trop" was highlighted. This initiative, a collaboration with local partners including the Family Planning La famille heureuse and Picardie Laïque, aimed to raise awareness about menstrual poverty through a festive family afternoon.
Prior to the event, the library hosted a writing workshop titled "A l’encre de nos règles" (In the Ink of Our Periods). The resulting collective poem was distributed as postcards to combat the persistent taboo surrounding menstruation.
Other libraries also presented their actions, including events around erotic literature in Ath, and dedicated collections on gender and sexuality in Saint-Josse and Forest.
This professional day facilitated the exchange of perspectives and experiences, questioning how libraries can contribute to better public information on sensitive or taboo subjects. By providing reliable and accessible resources, libraries play a crucial role in empowering individuals through information. A selection of works exploring themes like the body, puberty, sexuality, consent, periods, and menopause is available on their online catalog.
Based on information from the official source: Réseau de lecture publique de la Province de Hainaut (04/11/2026)
