Library introduces lactation station for mothers on campus

Library+introduces+lactation+station+for+mothers+on+campus

Two years ago, the ULM administration asked Library Director Megan Lowe to create a lactation room on campus for students who need a comfortable environment to nurse.

Last month, the room was completed. In room 219 of the library is the lactation station, where mothers can pump, breastfeed and change diapers without leaving campus. It can be accessed with a key you get at the circulation desk on the first floor of the library.

The room wasn’t completed sooner because of lack of supplies.

“I couldn’t afford to stock it myself,” Lowe said. “So the space just waited.”

But then the Ambitious Women’s Society came into the picture. Maren Williams, the library’s coordinator of public services, reached out to AWS about collaboration this semester.

AWS agreed to provide supplies like diapers, wipes and baby shampoo and now they keep the shelves stocked in the room. Everyone who uses the room can take one item per visit.

Lowe was determined to get the space completed no matter how long it took.

“My sister was my main motivation,” Lowe said. “More often than not, she had to pump in her car or in bathrooms, neither of which are great options. I hated the thought that students or employees were being forced to pump in their cars or bathrooms.”

When the library posted on Facebook announcing the room’s completion, many people from the ULM community were glad to hear about it.

ULM graduate Ashley Kees said, “This will bless so many. I wish it would’ve been there when I was there, but I am so glad it is there now.”

If anyone would like to volunteer to help with upkeep of the room, they can contact AWS.