apparatus for dispensing paper from rolls which feeds continuously , roll to roll , and does not require extra procedure to bring stub roll into position . the apparatus has means for holding and positioning at least first and second rolls of paper with respect to each other ; means for dispensing paper from the first roll ; means for dispensing paper from the first and second rolls simultaneously when the first roll reduces to a predetermined diameter of paper , means for positioning the depleted first roll for replacement without the necessity of removing the second roll ; and means for dispensing from the second and replacement rolls simultaneously when the second roll reduces to a predetermined diameter of paper . the apparatus also has a capacity - change based proximity sensor comprising a circuit according to a balanced bridge principle where detection is based on detecting a phase difference , which depends upon the amount of detected capacitance difference or change . the proximity detector senses when a hand is placed near the dispenser , and thereupon dispenses a set amount of towel . it does not keep dispensing the towel . the hand must be withdrawn and placed in proximity to the sensor again .