The Library Blog

Edinburgh Napier University Library blog. Filled with useful and fun blog articles on using the Library, the University, Edinburgh and many other fun topics.

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Edinburgh

New to Edinburgh? Edinburgh Guide

04/09/2026 / / 0 Comments

New to Edinburgh? Edinburgh Guide

Starting university in a new city can feel a little overwhelming, but one of the best ways to settle in is to get out and explore. And Edinburgh is the perfect city is the best place to do it. With historic streets, green spaces, cosy neighbourhoods and incredible views, there is so much to discover beyond the university campus.
Whether you’re looking for somewhere to take your new flatmates, a good spot for a weekend walk, or just somewhere to escape the library for an afternoon, here are some Edinburgh favourites to add to your list.

Arthur’s Seat

One of Edinburgh’s most famous landmarks, Arthur’s Seat is a must for anyone new to the city. Sitting in Holyrood Park just a short walk from the Royal Mile, this ancient extinct volcano rises 251 metres above sea level. So expect incredible views.
The walk to the top can be a little challenging in places, but the views are more than worth it. On a clear day, you can see across Edinburgh, over to the Firth of Forth and beyond.
It usually takes around one to two hours to complete the walk, depending on your route and how many times you stop for photos. It’s also a great one to do with your new coursemates or flatmates; just keep the weather in mind!

Calton Hill

If you want amazing Edinburgh views without quite as much effort, Calton Hill is the perfect alternative.
Just a short walk from the city centre, the hill gives you panoramic views across Edinburgh. And you can treat yourself to a little treat at cafe calton and take in the views.
Calton Hill is particularly worth visiting around sunset, when you can watch the city light up below you. It’s an easy way to get one of those classic Edinburgh views without committing to a full hike.

Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

Not every day in Edinburgh needs to involve climbing a hill. If you’re looking for somewhere peaceful, the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is a beautiful place to spend an afternoon to literally smell the flowers.
Covering 72 acres, the Botanics are home to thousands of different plant species, as well as impressive trees, gardens and glasshouses. And its free.

Dean Village & the Water of Leith

For somewhere that feels completely different from the busy city centre, head to Dean Village.
This picturesque area sits alongside the Water of Leith and is full of historic buildings, cobbled streets and riverside views. From Dean Village, you can follow the Water of Leith walkway towards Stockbridge, making it a lovely walk when you want to explore without heading too far out of the city.
It’s also one of those places that makes you realise just how much of Edinburgh there is to discover beyond the main tourist attractions.

Stockbridge & Circus Lane

Carry on towards Stockbridge and you’ll find one of Edinburgh’s most popular neighbourhoods with students and locals alike.
Stockbridge has a village-like feel, with independent shops, cafés, restaurants, charity shops and plenty of places to stop for food or coffee. Make sure to take a little detour to Circus Lane, one of the city’s prettiest streets.
It’s the perfect place for a relaxed afternoon when you don’t have anywhere you need to be.

Victoria Street & the Grassmarket

For a taste of Edinburgh’s Old Town, head to Victoria Street. Its colourful buildings and curved shape make it one of the most recognisable streets in the city, and it’s packed with independent shops and places to eat. Perfect place to capture for Instagram
At the bottom, you’ll find the Grassmarket, a lively area surrounded by pubs, restaurants and some great views of Edinburgh Castle.
It’s also a good starting point for exploring some of the smaller closes and hidden streets around the Old Town. Don’t just stick to the Royal Mile — some of Edinburgh’s best little discoveries are tucked away just off it.

National Museum of Scotland

When the classic Scottish weather arrives, the National Museum of Scotland is the perfect place to escape the rain.
Located in the Old Town, the museum has everything from Scottish history and culture to science, technology, nature and world history. Best of all, general admission is free, making it another great option for students.
You could easily spend a few hours here, so it’s worth keeping in mind for those days when you’ve made plans with friends but the weather has other ideas.

Edinburgh Castle

Of course, no Edinburgh list would be complete without Edinburgh Castle.
Sitting above the Old Town, the castle is one of the city’s most famous landmarks and is packed with centuries of Scottish history. Even if you don’t go inside, there are plenty of places around the Old Town where you can get great views of it.
For one of the best photo spots, head to The Vennel, where you can capture the castle rising above the historic buildings of the Grassmarket.

Explore the Royal Mile

The Royal Mile is one of the first places most people visit when they arrive in Edinburgh — but don’t just walk from one end to the other.
Take your time exploring the small closes, courtyards and side streets that branch off the main road. You’ll find historic buildings, tiny shops, cafés and plenty of hidden corners that are easy to miss if you’re rushing through.
It’s also a great place to bring friends and family when they visit you at university.

Portobello Beach

Yes, Edinburgh has a beach!
Portobello is just a short journey from the city centre and is home to a long stretch of sandy beach, cafés and places to grab an ice cream.
On a sunny day, it can feel like you’ve escaped the city completely. It’s ideal for a summer afternoon with friends, a walk along the promenade or simply sitting by the sea when you need a break from studying.

Bruntsfield & Morningside

If you’re looking to experience a more local side of Edinburgh, explore Bruntsfield and Morningside.
Both neighbourhoods have a relaxed atmosphere, with independent cafés, restaurants, charity shops and plenty of green space. They’re a great change of pace from the city centre and perfect for a lazy weekend coffee or an afternoon wandering around with friends.

Edinburgh’s spooky side.

Edinburgh has a seriously creepy history, so if you’re looking for something a little different, try a ghost or underground tour.
The Old Town is full of stories about murders, ghosts, plague victims and the people who once lived beneath the streets. Tours take you into some of the city’s historic closes and underground spaces, giving you a completely different perspective on Edinburgh.
It’s also a fun option for a group of new friends — especially if you’re brave enough to go after dark!

Make Edinburgh Your Own

The best thing about moving to Edinburgh is that you don’t have to see everything at once. Start with the big landmarks, but make time to wander without a plan too. You’ll quickly find your own favourite café, viewpoint, park or little street.
A great first Edinburgh day could be Dean Village → Water of Leith → Stockbridge → New Town → Victoria Street → Grassmarket, finishing with food or drinks with your new flatmates.
So, once you’ve ticked off Arthur’s Seat, Calton Hill and the Botanics, don’t stop there. Get lost down a few side streets, explore a new neighbourhood and see what you find — that’s when Edinburgh really starts to feel like home.
Photo by Mark Newbury Unsplash 
welcome

Welcome to ENU Libraries: An Introduction

01/09/2026 / / 0 Comments

Welcome to ENU Libraries: An Introduction

A very warm welcome to all of our new and returning students to our Edinburgh Napier University campus libraries this year! Have you had a chance to visit us yet? No worries if not! There is still plenty of time to get to know us, the resources and services we offer, and how we can support you throughout your university journey. Don’t be afraid to pop by one of our help desks to say hello! In the meantime, we will briefly introduce ourselves and share the resources and services we offer to support our student and staff community throughout the year.

 

Books!…

 

What is a library without it’s books? We have a vast range and collection of physical and online books and journals which you can consult and borrow from us. Most of these books and journals are also tailored to your specific school and area of study. Our books and journals can be accessed by visiting our campus libraries or by signing into LibrarySearch, where you can access our e-books or online journals or place a request for a physical book to be kept on hold for you for up to a week at any of our campus libraries, which is most convenient to you.

 

Any physical books you take out on loan will automatically renew for up to four months maximum unless it is recalled to satisfy another request – in this instance you will receive an email regarding this and have seven days to return the item from when the email is sent. You can scan any books out at our self-service kiosks on campus; we also offer a Postal Loans Service which you can apply for as well. More information about Finding and Borrowing Books is available in our My Napier Webpages.

 

PCs and Laptops…

 

Digital access is very important to us at Edinburgh Napier University. Our libraries have loads of PCs in each campus library which are free to use and don’t have to be booked in advance – it’s all first come first served! Some of them also have dual screen monitors if you need to do a bit of multi-tasking, and we also have standing desks as well as seated ones. We also have library laptops which can be taken out and borrowed for up to two weeks – these can be borrowed from our self-service Lapsafe lockers located in our Sighthill, Merchiston and Craiglockhart campus libraries, as well as the JKCC and Bainfield Student Accommodation. Unfortunately, because our library laptops are so popular, they cannot be renewed for more than two weeks, but you can check their availability in the Laptop Availability tile in your student account and My Napier app.

 

Our LibGuide…

 

We have a thorough, up-to-date LibGuide which covers all schools and subject areas at Edinburgh Napier University as well as topics such as copyright, literature reviewing, publishing and open access, reading lists, referencing and how to use reference management software such as Endnote and Mendeley. Check it out! Find out LibGuide in here.

 

Study Spaces and Bookable Study Rooms…

 

Whether you need a quiet place to study or a space to collaborate on a group project, we have a wide range of study spaces tailored to your individual needs in all three of our campus libraries. We also have bookable study rooms which can be reserved through Resource Booker. Rooms can be booked up to 14 days in advance for a maximum of two hours. Some of them are also equipped with AV equipment, screens and PCs as well as whiteboards, tables and chairs – great for a bit of collaborative group work and learning! For students with children or childcare responsibilities, we also have Family Study Rooms in our Merchiston and Craiglockhart campus libraries equipped with toy boxes to keep your little ones entertained while you study.

 

Our Wellbeing Collection…

 

Fun fact: we don’t just have academic books and textbooks! We also have a range of books, DVDs and resources covering topics such as mental health, managing finances, personal relationships, sleep, neurodiversity and university life. They all come under our Wellbeing Collection, which can be found in our LibGuide. In this collection, you can find a range of resources to support different areas of your health and wellbeing, including inspiring stories and practical tips, advice and tools which can be applied to everyday realities and challenges in both your personal and university life.

 

Online Workshops…

 

We have a range of workshops, training and drop-in sessions available, both online and in-person, that can be found and booked through our Libcal. There are sessions specifically tailored to students, staff or both groups sometimes as well! There are workshops and drop-in sessions that cover areas such as getting started with the library, literature reviewing, database searching (sometimes specific ones such as CINAHL or JSTOR), referencing and open access publishing, to give a few examples.

 

Displays…

 

Throughout the year, our library staff will often put up and curate a range of themed displays advertising our resources and services – some of these displays are also in line with national holidays such as Christmas, Easter, Halloween and Valentine’s Day. They often have posters, flyers, bookmarks and leaflets advertising our services and resources – sometimes they may also have some relevant books on display, Post-it notes to leave us some feedback, and even sweets or fruit!

 

Contact us…

 

Need to get in touch with us? Our contact details can be found below.

 

Email Address: library@napier.ac.uk

Phone Number: 0131 455 3500

 

See our Opening Hours here.

 

By Rachel Downie

Need a bit direction, we have a campus guide

Bookshop

Bookshops of Edinburgh

24/08/2026 / / 0 Comments

Bookshops of Edinburgh

If librarians aren’t spending their spare time visiting other libraries, you will probably find them in bookshops. Edinburgh is home to some of the finest bookshops in the world, and we love to share them.

Edinburgh has always been a city that seems made for readers: its winding closes, historic streets and atmospheric cafés. It has captured the imagination of writers over the years. And with this, Edinburgh is home to beautiful independent bookshops that capture the creativity. So whether you are seeking first editions, a story to get lost in, or a gift for someone special, there is a bookshop for you.

Argonaut Books

Argonaut Books, situated on Leith Walk, has established itself as a community-focused independent bookshop. It offers a rich, diverse selection of books for everyone, as well as community events such as workshops and book launches. A true gem to have in your life.

Armchair Books:

At 72–74 West Port, Armchair Books is a wonderful starting point for anyone who loves the atmosphere of a traditional second-hand bookshop. Self-described as “alphabetised chaos” so please be aware when you go in, you will be there for hours marvelling at its magic.

Golden Hare Books

Now heading over to Stockbridge. An award-winning independent bookshop that handpicks books for the ever-changing landscape of fiction and non-fiction. The shop also runs author events, workshops and a reading group, making it a genuine part of Stockbridge

Edinburgh Books

Now in Bruntsfield we have Edinburgh Books, another award-winning bookshop. There is an expansive collection of fiction as well as children’s books; they also hold story time twice a week for under 5 which is much loved. As well as other action-packed events that must be visited.

Lighthouse – Edinburgh’s Radical Bookshop

One of Edinburgh’s most distinctive and beloved bookshops, situated on West Nicholson Street. Supporting small presses and new writers, with a wide selection of books for politically and socially engaged reading. Good destination if you are interested in politics, LGBTQ+, social justice and feminism.

McNaughtan’s Bookshop

For something a little more specialist, head towards Haddington Place and McNaughtan’s Bookshop.

A long history of specialising in second-hand books that appeals to any book collector who has a particular interest in older editions.

This is less about quickly picking up a paperback and more about discovering something with a story

Rare Birds Book Shop

Visiting Stockbridge for the second time, this time to the Rare Birds Book Shop. The shop proudly and exclusively features books written by female authors, celebrating diverse voices across fiction, non-fiction, and captivating contemporary prose. Beyond its inspiring book walls, you will discover a warm, welcoming community hub complete with unique literary gifts, stationery,

Typewronger Books

Another distinctive personality to Edinburgh’s independent bookshop scene.

Located on Bruntsfield Place, it’s a small independent shop with a strong sense of community and an eclectic literary character. It’s the sort of place that rewards curiosity, with books and independent publishing sitting alongside the shop’s distinctive typewriter-inspired identity.

Independent Bookshops

One of the best things about Edinburgh’s independent bookshops is that they aren’t all the same, and these shops all give the city character. Which is magical for a city with rich literary history.  So go and visit one of these beautiful bookshops and remember, there are many other ones too. Independent bookshops provide spaces where booksellers can recommend something personal, readers can discover authors they might otherwise miss, and communities can come together around literature.

Photo by Nathalie Stimpfl, Unsplash 

Got the reading bug? We have some staff recommendations. 

Edinburgh International Book Festival 2026

Edinburgh International Book Festival 2026

14/08/2026 / / 0 Comments

Edinburgh International Book Festival 2026

Saturday 15th – Sunday 30th August 2026.

The Book Festival

The Edinburgh International Book Festival began as a biennial event in 1983 and became an annual event in 1997, and has now been running for over forty years. As one of the largest public celebrations of reading and the written word, there is always something for everyone.

The Edinburgh International Book Festival is a charity which depends on gifts and donations from willing donors to achieve its goal of promoting reading and writing and encouraging an understanding of the wider world, bringing empathy, escapism, entertainment and joy to the masses no matter where they come from, their age, financial status or individual tastes.

Funding is not only required to support the Book Festival itself but also a wide variety of events within schools, hospitals, prisons, libraries and community centres all year round. The funding helps to secure these projects for now and for the future.

Where to find it and what to expect

Every year in August the Edinburgh International Book Festival takes place alongside the city’s Fringe Festival. This year the Book Festival runs from Saturday 15th – Sunday 30th August 2026.

The Book Festival is based at Edinburgh Futures Institute, close to Edinburgh’s Old Town, in what was formerly the Royal Infirmary Hospital building. The old and new architecture really captures the atmosphere of the Book Festival with something to suit everyone’s tastes and loads of cosy corners for reading. The main entrance to the building is just off Middle Meadow Walk at the junction with Porter’s Walk.

The Festival site is open daily from 09:30 – 23:00 and is free to enter. You can enjoy a selection of food and drinks and relax at the indoor café and Courtyard pop-ups. There are some green spaces nearby and cosy indoor nooks available for shelter just in case of inclement weather (it is Scotland after all!).

The famous Festival Bookshop, run by Waterstones, is in a spacious tent in the Courtyard. The bookshop is filled with titles from the authors in the events programme and lots more. The Bookshop also provides space for book signings by authors after their events. There are also other signing locations outside some of the venues hosting author events.

Events and Writers

The Edinburgh International Book Festival is a unique event showcasing both new and well-known writers and celebrates all things literary, bringing together Scottish, British and international writers to inspire each other and the wider public with a series of wide-ranging events. Generating discussions and making them available to everyone is the focus of the Book Festival.

With 600 events taking place over the 16 days, you can explore the events listings to find out what is happening each day and to see ticket prices. Events take place at venues throughout the city with something to suit every age group and every genre. Tens of thousands of people come together every year to celebrate books, and the impact reading can have. The Book Festival is a place where stories come alive, people’s views can be heard, and new perspectives are discovered. It can inspire conversations and debates, helping us to understand the world around us and opening our minds to other cultures and new perspectives.

Discussion, performance and interactive events are now popular elements of the Festival, as well as the more traditional author talks, strengthening the Book Festival’s prominence as a dynamic conference which encourages people to ask questions and exchange views with writers and experts on various subjects, whether social, ethical or political, all the while remaining literary and cultural.

The format of events can vary from a typical interview with an author, Q&A session and book signing or a debate hosted by a chairperson where the audience are also invited to ask questions. More unusual events may involve enjoying food and drinks or a ramble through the city’s Old Town searching for favourite characters such as the Gruffalo. Events for children can vary in activity levels – some will be more energetic with singing and dancing; some will involve play time while others offer a chance to unwind with some quiet time listening to a storyteller. There is a packed programme of events this year with something to suit everyone – all ages and all genres. Colm Tóibín, Meera Syal, Ann Patchett, Matt Haig, Lorraine Kelly, Prue Leith, Alan Davies, Jacqueline Wilson and Liz Pichon are just a few of the famous faces who can be seen at this year’s Book Festival.

Don’t worry if you can’t make it in-person to your favourite events. Most of the events in larger venues are livestreamed and are available to watch both in-person and online, so you don’t need to miss anything! A variety of cameras are used to film live footage of both the stage and the audience so you can see the whole event online if you are unable to attend in-person.

So, explore the programme, find an event that interests you and get involved. You never know, you may even be lucky enough to see one of your favourite authors meandering around the Book Festival!

 

By Sharon McMichael

 

Why not read our article on world book day?

 

Reading lists

Reading Lists: Best Practice Tips for Academic Staff

12/08/2026 / / 0 Comments

Reading Lists: Best Practice Tips for Academic Staff

As the start of a new academic year approaches, we wanted to share some advice from the library for creating or updating reading lists! To support this, library staff will be running training sessions on the Leganto reading list platform in late August 2026. Dates, times, and booking information for these sessions are available in Libcal.

Effective reading lists are more than a collection of resources, as they can:

  • Help students manage their workload.
  • Provide a structured route through relevant literature.
  • Support student engagement with key concepts explored throughout a module.

Whether you are creating a brand-new list or reviewing an existing one, these simple tips will help you make the most of your reading lists.

Set Manageable Expectations

It can be tempting to include every potentially relevant resource that you’ve found, but a focused reading list will often provide a clearer and more manageable learning experience for students. As a rough guide, limiting a list to a maximum of 100 items will greatly improve its usability, particularly for users of accessibility tools such as screen readers.

Instead of providing an exhaustive list of resources, consider directing students to Library Search to start their own research. In this way, keeping your list to a realistic length will encourage readers to carry out their own searches and find further material.

Structure Resources around Learning

Even if it is a more manageable length, an unstructured list can initially be overwhelming. Our reading lists can be structured using sections and tags to help you arrange and prioritise the resources in your list.

Organising resources into sections – which can be based on weeks, units, or topics – will allow students to navigate easily to relevant resources as they work through the module content. Within these sections, using tags to mark resources as ‘Essential’ or ‘Recommended’ will make your list more user-friendly, by helping students to identify the key resources at each stage of their learning.

Think beyond Books

One of the most common misconceptions about Reading Lists is that they are only for books. In fact, our Reading Lists can contain more than fifty different resource types, including journal articles, videos, maps, transcripts, or podcasts.

Including a variety of formats – such as links to Box of Broadcasts, sound recordings, or YouTube videos – not only makes your reading list more engaging, but can also help to make the list more accessible.

Review and Refresh

It is good practice to review your list yearly to check on any updated editions, add emerging research, and review the list’s structure and tags. As academic publishing can change quickly, access to the most up-to-date resources and perspectives is important for students.

The reading list tool embedded in your module will roll over when Moodle refreshes*, so you can continue to work with the previous year’s list. Conducting an annual review of any reading lists linked to your ongoing modules will ensure they remain relevant, accurate, and aligned with your learning outcomes.

* Please note, one exception to this automatic roll over is cross-listed modules (those with an XL code). For these, please contact your subject librarian to assist with the rollover of your reading list.

Work with the Library

Remember, the library is available to you at every stage of the reading list process. Library staff can:

  • Check and update links to ensure resources are accessible.
  • Purchase recommended materials where appropriate. You can add resources not currently available via the library to your list, and we will investigate whether purchase is possible.
  • Advise on alternative options when electronic formats are unavailable or we cannot supply sufficient licences for access.
  • Where possible, support digitisation requests through the Digital Extracts Service to make a book chapter or journal article available online through the Copyright Licensing Agency (CLA).

To ensure that library staff have time to investigate purchase or alternative access options if needed, please submit any reading lists for review four weeks before the start of trimester.

Not just for Teaching

Lastly, you can also use reading lists to organise resources outside of teaching for your modules. All staff and students have access to the reading lists platform, called Leganto. You can use this platform to create a journal club, set up a tutor reading group or even just to organise your own personal list of resources – and you don’t have to worry about this list being too long!

For example, get inspired by this list of suggested Summer Reading from the library, or take a moment to explore our Wellbeing Collection list.

Find Out More

For even more information on reading lists, please go to our Reading Lists LibGuide, which provides instructions and guidance for every step of the process. Or, as mentioned at the start of this post, you can attend one our upcoming workshops found on Libcal.

Finally, if you need any further support or have any questions about this topic, remember the library is here to help!

By Anna Langdon

Books

Book Lovers Day

09/08/2026 / / 0 Comments

Book Lovers Day

 

Calling all book lovers! Today is National Book Lovers Day – the perfect opportunity to embrace your love of literature and immerse yourself in a good book. This could be a new book you purchased or borrowed from the library recently, an old favourite which you have read many times, or even a book recommended by a family member or friend that you have not started reading yet that you have been keen to start for a while. The possibilities are endless! National Book Lovers Day also encourages and promotes all forms of reading, whether it is a hardback, paperback, e-book, or audiobook.

 

History of Book Lovers Day…

 

National Book Lovers Day is recognised as an unofficial holiday, so much about its origins, such as its official creator or founder and when it began, is unknown. It primarily emerged among local communities that enjoyed reading and wanted to widely promote this love of books and literature across other communities and regions. This national day is now widely recognised and celebrated across the globe.

 

Health Benefits of Books…

 

The annual ‘State of the Nation’ study conducted by The Reading Agency found that just over 50% of UK adults would describe themselves as regular readers, with the most notable rise being among demographic groups in their 20s and 30s. This is not only good news for bookshops, booksellers and libraries – it can also improve the well-being of individuals and communities on a national level as studies have shown that making reading a regular activity is linked to cognitive benefits such as lower stress levels, a more enhanced vocabulary, higher empathy and improved focus and concentration.

Since stress is one of the biggest killers regarding how it increases your risk of a heart attack, high blood pressure and stroke, this means that reading regularly can not only have cognitive benefits but also physical health benefits as well. Reading is also very good for your mental health. According to statistics compiled in a report written in 2025 by The Reading Agency, more than half of individuals who read regularly were more likely to express that they were generally happy and in good spirits. Just over half of the participants who read regularly also reported better sleep and greater ease in relaxing and ‘switch off’. Participants in this study who read regularly were also 32% less likely to report feeling depressed or anxious.

 

How our Libraries can help…

 

Did you know that, in addition to academic textbooks, journals, and articles, we also have fiction books in our library stock? If you are a student or staff member, or have an external or SCONUL Access membership with us, and need a break from academic texts, we have a variety of fiction that covers various themes and genres, all of which can be found in our LibrarySearch catalogue. They can also be accessed and requested through LibrarySearch as well if you have the required borrowing and access privileges.

When requesting a book from us, you can select your preferred campus to pick it up from – we will then send the requested item to your chosen campus library for pickup. We also have a wide range of seating areas and relaxation spaces in all three of our campus library which you can use whilst reading any of our or your own books. Our libraries are devoted to providing quiet, accessible spaces for patrons, and if you need a peaceful place to read, you have come to the right place!

 

Much of our fictional texts can be found in our Wellbeing Collection. This collection has been specially curated with books and resources that cover a variety of themes and topics, including relationships, mental health, neurodiversity, digital well-being, and university life. Texts can be either fiction or non-fiction as well.

By Rachel Downie

 

world cat day

World Cat Day

08/08/2026 / / 0 Comments

World Cat Day

 

Gather round all cat lovers and feline enthusiasts! Today is World Cat Day, which takes place on the 8th of August every year. This year, World Cat Day falls on a Saturday (shall we call it Cat-tur-day?) and was established by the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), one of the largest animal welfare charities globally. Their fundamental objectives when launching this international day were to promote cat welfare, responsible ownership, and the protection of felines, as well as to celebrate their species overall. This very much remains their primary focus to this day. A large number of cat shelters also organise and run special adoption events or alternatively campaigns to raise awareness of cat protection and care on the 8th of August every year.

 

Some fun facts about felines…

 

  • There are approximately 600 million cats worldwide. This includes pets, feral cats and strays.
  • Having a cat neutered and spayed helps reduce the number of homeless cats and improves their overall health.
  • The longest living cat lived until the age of 38! Born on the 3rd of August 1967, Creme Puff exceeded the average lifespan of an indoor domesticated cat (12-18 years) before eventually passing away in the year 2005.
  • Following on from the previous fact, Creme Puff’s owner, Jake Perry, also owned a cat called Rex who exceeded the average feline lifespan, living to the age of 34! Rex held the record for the longest living cat prior to Creme Puff.
  • We share the same emotional regions of the brain as cats, so, cognitively, humans may be more like cats than we think!
  • The average cat has 18 toes, distributed between its front and hind paws. However, most cats have a condition called polydactylism, which causes them to be born with extra toes.
  • Cats, on average, sleep for a maximum of 15 hours a day, which takes up an estimated 70% of their lifespan in total!
  • In Ancient Egypt, cat owners would shave their eyebrows off as a ritual of mourning when their cat passed away. Cats, like humans, were also mummified after death and buried in tombs with their owners.

 

How you can support the cause…

 

There are many ways in which you can make a positive difference for our feline friends, whether it is from home, digitally or out in the local community.

 

  • Spreading the Word: Probably one of the easiest ways to support the cause – you can share any posts, pictures, stories or factual information on your social media channels to promote awareness regarding cat protection, care and advocacy.
  • Donate or Raise Money: You can make a one-off or regular donation to cat shelters and charity organisations, or provide any used items you are clearing out, such as towels or blankets. If time and resources allow, you can even organise a fundraising event or activity within your local community.
  • Treat your Feline Friend: Give your own cat some spoiling this International Cat Day! Treat them to a grooming session, a new toy or even some cuddles on your lap.
  • Volunteering: If you have a bit of spare time and perhaps want to send some of that around cats, you can volunteer to help out at a local cat shelter or rescue group, which could involve tasks such as bathing, feeding and socialising the cats there.

By Rachel Downie

 

Photo by Raoul Droog Unsplash

 

Have more of an animal read

library summer services

Library Summer Services

24/07/2026 / / 0 Comments

Library Summer Services

We wanted to let you know that despite the fact that it’s summer and there are building works going on at both Merchiston and Craiglockhart campuses, all campus libraries are open and staffed to provide assistance throughout the summer. We can help with all library-related questions, connect you to Wi-Fi, do password changes, help with multi-factor authentication and more! Our webpages have lots of useful information so even if our helpdesks are not open you may still be able to find what you need there.

Opening hours

Information about our opening hours and how libraries are being affected by ongoing works can be found on our website.

Library Search

Our catalogue Library Search is available 24/7 to search for books and articles. Don’t forget to sign in to view articles and e-books and to view your loans or pay outstanding fines.

Book loans

Books can still be borrowed and returned. All loans are extended over the summer and will be due back to us by 18th September 2026. Inter library loan  requests can still be submitted and will be processed and supplied as normal.

Laptops

Laptops can be borrowed from and returned to lapsafes. The laptop loan period does not change over the summer so continues to be for 2 weeks and overdue laptops will still be locked. Long term loan laptops due for return can be returned to helpdesks during opening hours.

Printing

Printers are still available and can be used as long as the library is open, and you have sufficient print credit.

Study rooms and spaces

Although it’s summer and libraries are used much less, we recommend booking a study room if you want to use one. Group study rooms are still in demand, and some will be upgraded over the summer, making them unavailable at times. Remember that a booking has priority over a “drop in”. Use Resource Booker to make your booking. Booths and collaborative desks are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Study spaces are available for use as long as there aren’t any building works going on in the area. We have quiet rooms and silent study rooms for those who find noise a distraction.

Relaxation spaces

Our relaxation spaces can be used throughout the summer if you are on campus and need to take a break. Colouring sheets, books, jigsaws and origami paper are all available to use.

Subject librarians

Your subject librarians are still around to provide expert assistance with referencing, databases, and so much more. Use the contact below if you would like to get some help from them.

Email: library@napier.ac.uk

Outwith staffed hours you may be able to find the information you need in the Subject Guide for your area of study on LibGuides

Training

There are still some online training sessions running over the summer, which may be helpful. Courses, dates, times and booking information can be found on Libcal.

Whatever your course or study needs over the summer, we have a range of resources available to you, and don’t forget we are on campus to help during staffed hours. We wish you successful summer studies!

By Vivienne Hamilton

 

 

 

study spaces

The Best Library Spaces for Different Types of Study

19/07/2026 / / 0 Comments

 The Best Library Spaces for Different Types of Study

There are several different study spaces available across our campus libraries to support your needs. From social study spaces that allow for collaborative work to individual spaces, silent study areas, and family study rooms, we have something to suit everyone. 

Study rooms are available across all campus libraries and must be booked in advance via Resource Booker. You can book a maximum of one two-hour slot per day. During assessment periods, this is extended to five hours per day. Study rooms can be booked up to 14 days in advance.  

Craiglockhart and Merchiston libraries have Family Study Rooms for students who have children with them. Please book rooms in advance of your visit. 

Library opening hours vary across our campuses. We are currently operating our Summer Library timetable. Our standard opening hours will resume in September. 

Please read on to find out more about the study spaces available at each of our campus libraries. 

 

Craiglockhart Spaces

Social study spaces are available in the main area of the library, which also includes a relaxation space where you can take a break from your studies. 

Five study rooms are available throughout the library. Each has a plasma screen, a whiteboard, and a webcam. 

There is also a quiet study room and a silent study area for those who prefer a more peaceful environment for studying. 

 

Merchiston Spaces

Please note: Zones 2 – 5 are currently closed due to essential maintenance works and are expected to re-open in September 2026. 

Merchiston Library is available 24 hours a day during term time. You can use the library freely each day from 8am – 5pm. You will need your Student ID to access the library after 5pm. 

Merchiston Library is divided into 5 separate zones allowing for different types of study spaces with 11 study rooms available. 

Zone 1 is a social study area which allows for independent study and group work. There are round tables to allow for collaborative working and several computers available for use. There are also two study pods with large screens for independent or collaborative working. Here you will find Study Room 8 where you can connect your own personal device to a large screen. 

Zone 2 is another social study area which allows for individual study and collaborative working. Computers are available for use in this area. 

Study rooms 1, 2, 5, 6 and 7 are available where you can connect your own device to a screen. There are also two study pods in Zone 2. 

There is also a relaxation space to help you unwind from your studies. 

Zone 3 is a silent study area with individual study spaces over two floors.  

Zone 4 allows for independent study and collaborative working. Noise should be kept to a minimum. 

Zone 5 has independent study desks and desks for collaborative working. This is a quieter area where noise should be at a minimal level with low work-related conversation. Study rooms 3, 4, 9,10 and 11 are available in Zone 5. Please note that these study rooms will be closed from 9pm to 9am.  

 

Sighthill Spaces

Sighthill Learning Resource Centre offers students a range of comfortable study environments with up-to-date facilities spread over five floors. 

Nine study rooms are available, and all are equipped with computers; most also have plasma screens. Study room 4.E.03 has an adjustable height desk. 

Silent rooms (3.E.07 and 4.E.07) provide the opportunity for silent study with great views towards the Castle and Arthur’s Seat. 

LRC Floor 1 is a social study space with a combination of study booths and collaborative desks. This can be a noisy area. 

LRC Floor 2 is where you will find the helpdesk. There may be some noise, but it should be quieter than on Floor 1. Computers and desks are available in this area for independent or collaborative study. 

LRC Floor 3 is a quiet study area but there may be some low-volume work-related conversations. Silent study room (3.E.07) contains individual study spaces and two dual screen PCs. Sighthill Library relaxation space can be found on the east side of LRC3, where you can rest and enjoy the natural light and views of the surrounding area. 

LRC Floor 4 is also a quiet study area where low-volume work-related conversations may occur. Silent study room (4.E.07) contains individual study space, one large monitor and two dual screen PCs. 

LRC 5 has group study spaces, laptop tables, four group study rooms and comfortable seating. 

Please see Group Study Rooms for more details on what facilities are available across our campus libraries. 

 

Relaxation Spaces 

Each campus library also hosts relaxation spaces allowing for more informal study or a place to unwind from your studies for a while. Comfortable seating and indoor plants provide a pleasing environment to help you relax and a range of activities such as jigsaws, board games, Lego, colouring sheets and craft materials allow you to de-stress and take a break from studying. 

 

As you can see, there are a wide variety of study spaces available across our campus libraries. ENU students can use any of our campus libraries regardless of which is your main campus. 

If you require assistance while using our libraries, please contact staff at our library help desks, call us on 0131 455 3500 or email us at Library Enquiries. 

By Sharon McMichael

 Campus Guide

 

 

 

horoscopes

Dewey Decimal Classifications as Star Signs: Finding Your Cosmic Library Identity

16/07/2026 / / 0 Comments

Dewey Decimal Classifications as Star Signs: Finding Your Cosmic Library Identity

Forget birth charts. The Dewey Decimal System not only organises books but also aligns with zodiac signs. So, which shelf matches your sign, and what does it say about you?

♈ Aries (March 21 – April 19)

Your Section: 790s — Sports, Games & Recreation

You don’t read the instructions; you are more of a figure-it-out-as-you-go kind of person. Your library books are full of ambitious hobbies that, of course, you’ll absolutely master.  You’re always ready for new challenges. This month’s forecast: Say yes to a new challenge, but maybe finish one project before starting four more.

♉ Taurus (April 20 – May 20)

Your Section: 640s — Home & Cooking

Comfort is an art form for you. You know the best reading chair, the best bakery, and exactly how many blankets are appropriate, which is always more. Hey, you just like to be comfy. This month’s forecast: Your ideal weekend involves snacks, soft lighting, and one really good book.

♊ Gemini (May 21 – June 20)

Your Section: 400s — Language

You collect interesting words so other people can keep the stamps. Your browser history contains things like “etymology,” “how to pronounce…,” and six unrelated Wikipedia rabbit holes. This month’s forecast: Someone fascinating is about to cross your path. Ask questions!

♋ Cancer (June 21 – July 22)

Your Section: 800s — Literature

You don’t just choose books; they choose you like a true wizard. You develop attachments to fictional families and often end up crying over endings and maybe adverts. This month’s forecast: A comforting reread may be exactly what you need.

♌ Leo (July 23 – August 22)

Your Section: 700s — Arts

Life is a performance, and honestly, you’re giving an excellent one. Whether it’s painting or theatre, you’re drawn toward creativity that makes people stop and look. This month’s forecast: Your creativity deserves an audience.

And Happy Birthdays, Leos!!

♍ Virgo (August 23 – September 22)

Your Section: 005 — Computer Programming & Productivity

You appreciate systems that make sense. Colour-coded spreadsheets? Beautiful, why doesn’t everyone do this? The Dewey Decimal System itself is basically your comfort language (hello librarians). This month’s forecast: Remember: “good enough” is sometimes genuinely good enough.

♎ Libra (September 23 – October 22)

Your Section: 700s — Design & Decorative Arts

You have opinions about book covers and believe beauty matters, whether it’s architecture or typography. You’ve got style. This month’s forecast: Trust your aesthetic instincts—but don’t spend three hours choosing between two identical notebooks.

♏ Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)

Your Section: 130s — Paranormal & Mysteries

Ghosts? Ancient conspiracies? Unsolved disappearances? Your light reading is often shrouded in secrets and hidden motives, so maybe not so light??. This month’s forecast: Curiosity may uncover something surprising.

♐ Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)

Your Section: 910s — Travel & Geography

You’re always mentally packing a suitcase. Whether you’re exploring a new country or diving into a culture through literature, adventure is your natural habitat. This month’s forecast: Follow the road that looks interesting.

♑ Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)

Your Section: 650s — Business & Management

Goals and checklists? You have them. You secretly enjoy productivity books and aren’t ashamed of it. This month’s forecast: Success is coming—but so is your reminder to take a lunch break.

♒ Aquarius (January 20 – February 18)

Your Section: 001 — Ideas, Inventions & Future Thinking

You live three trends ahead of everyone else, get it. Your reading list follows a chaotic yet intriguing path from artificial intelligence to speculative architecture. This month’s forecast: Your weird idea might actually be brilliant.

♓ Pisces (February 19 – March 20)

Your Section: 200s — Mythology, Spirituality & Religion

Reality is optional for you. You love stories that ask impossible questions and leave readers saying, “Wait… what just happened?” **This month’s forecast: Pay attention to your imagination. It’s trying to tell you something.

No matter your sign, your next great adventure is waiting somewhere between 000 and 999. The stars may influence your personality, but your library card is what determines your destiny. So go on, explore your shelf and see where your cosmic and literary paths converge!

Photo by New York Public Library Unsplash

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