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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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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Share & Discover: The ENU Research Repository Explained

Share & Discover: The ENU Research Repository Explained

12/07/2026 / / 0 Comments

Share & Discover: The ENU Research Repository Explained

 

An institutional repository is an online platform where a university collects and shares its research. Think of it as a digital home for the work created by staff and students. It helps make research more visible, keeps it safe in the long term, and allows others to discover and use it. At Edinburgh Napier, the repository is a public-facing side of Worktribe, the system used to record research activity.

Whether you’re a student starting your first research project or an academic sharing your latest publication, the ENU research repository is a valuable service provided by the library to help you showcase your work.

Why Use the Repository?

 

There are plenty of benefits to using the repository, both for researchers and the wider community.

 

  • It increases visibility. When you upload your work, it can be found through search engines such as CORE, Google, or our LibrarySearch. This means your research can reach a much wider audience, not just those with access to academic journals.

 

  • It helps preserve your work. The repository provides a stable, long-term archive, so your research remains available even if journal access changes or websites disappear.

 

  • Your repository page acts as your academic staff profile. By keeping your outputs up to date in Worktribe, you can easily present your research and keep a complete record of your work.

 

  • Keeping an up-to-date record of your research is necessary for upcoming REF2029. All outputs to be submitted to REF must be recorded in the repository.

 

It’s worth noting that the repository isn’t just for journal articles or books. It supports a wide range of research output types, including datasets, reports, podcasts, exhibitions, teaching resources, and many others. This reflects the diversity of research at ENU and helps promote work from across all disciplines.

 

Supporting Open Access

One of the repository’s most important roles is helping researchers make their work openly accessible.

Under the university’s Open Access Policy and rights-retention approach, ENU academics retain the right to share copies of their accepted manuscripts in the repository. This is known as green open access. It allows journal articles and conference papers to be freely available, even if they are published in journals behind a paywall.

As an author, all you need to remember is to upload your accepted manuscript to Worktribe. Once it’s in the system, it can be shared in the repository with a Creative Commons licence, helping more people access and use your research.

 

Did you know?

 

The ENU repository is an ideal place to share research data. In this short video, we explain how to make your data available using Worktribe.

 

You can also easily request a DOI (Digital Object Identifier) for your outputs hosted in our repository, such as datasets or reports. A DOI gives your work a permanent, citable link, making it easier for others to find and reference it. When creating an output record, simply click ‘Request DOI’, and the repository team will assign it.

 

Getting Started

 

Using the repository is straightforward and brings real benefits to your research visibility. The library repository team manages the outputs section of Worktribe and is happy to help with any questions you might have. Please send your queries to repository@napier.ac.uk.

 

For more information about the repository and open access publishing, see the Publishing and Open Access LibGuide. You can find guidance on using Worktribe on the staff intranet.

And we have another bloghttps://blogs.napier.ac.uk/library/?s=open+access posts

By Patrycja Respondek

Green library

Stars and wishes for green libraries

10/07/2026 / / 0 Comments

Stars and wishes for green libraries

 

In the face of consumerism and the throwaway society, libraries have become community oases with the potential to embody all three principles of sustainability (as described in the Guiding principles for sustainable development document published by the UK government). Their role will certainly become pivotal in the green future of societies.

 

Libraries as environmental guardians

 

At Edinburgh Napier University, Craiglockhart Library quite literally evokes the idea of a green library. The campus is nestled in what we would describe in French as “un écrin de verdure” (essentially, a metaphorical green jewellery box), as the buildings sit atop a small hill, surrounded by trees and green spaces. From the library office, large bay windows face the slope of Craiglockhart Hill West, covered in a tangle of trees and ferns. Slowly coming out of winter this year, we have been eyewitnesses to the re-greening, budding and blossoming of trees, hedges, and shrubs, which have now left a palette of lovely green hues among plants and leaves.

It feels like a privilege to take your eyes off the computer for a few moments and spot and follow the wanderings of a rabbit, a squirrel, or even a fox. You can leave the library building at lunchtime and take a walk around campus while listening to the song of various birds in the trees and you may be rewarded with the sight of a robin performing its lovely song from a high-up branch, its tiny throat quivering as it warbles.

Therefore, Craiglockhart Library is an example of a library which can offer what could be described as “green wellbeing” to people. Library staff there have taken this idea even further by bringing the greenery indoors, with plants lining the office bay windows and dotted throughout the library. Of note from last year – a cherry tomato plant in our office kept producing tomatoes well into the beginning of winter, and this was a source of joy for many of us.

 

Libraries as inclusive spaces which foster social interactions

 

Few places offer a stronger sense of community than libraries do. Libraries strive to bring people together in inclusive spaces which can become a lifeline and offer relief from isolation and loneliness. Reading is an excellent way to learn new things, reflect, develop new skills, and broaden one’s horizons. Picking up a book can also open a door onto adventure and feelings of joy, suspense but also tears, and it comes at no additional cost for library users.

At Edinburgh Napier University, our three campus libraries located at Craiglockhart, Merchiston and Sighthill are welcoming and safe places for everybody and offer a wide range of spaces and services to meet the varying needs of our library users.

  • Need to focus on your studies or revise for exams? Feel free to use our quiet and silent study rooms.
  • Preparing for a group presentation? Why not book one of our group study rooms or use one of our open-space study booths?
  • Looking for resources for your assessment? Browse our shelves and use Library Search to access both print and digital items.
  • Looking for books to support your wellbeing? Our wellbeing collections of self-help books are available for you at our three campuses.
  • Want to take a break after a busy day? Make your way to our relaxation area. If you need quiet time to yourself, why not sit at one of our jigsaw tables and build a puzzle for a while, to take your mind off things? We also have colouring books and board games available.
  • Need help accessing our services or any questions? Our friendly staff are here to help at the library desk, Monday to Friday, 8.45am-4.45pm.

 

Libraries as advocates for a circular economy

 

The usual “green gestures” for the environment are of course as important as ever to reduce energy and resource waste in libraries, such as (but not limited to): switching lights off after hours, switching electronic devices (such as PCs and laptops) off after use, printing less and using the appropriate bins for the suitable type of waste.

However, libraries go further than just reducing waste and energy consumption – they promote the re-generation of resources, which underpins the circular economy model (as described by the UK Green Building Council). The lifecycle of library’s printed and digital resources and physical equipment (such as desks, chairs, PCs, laptops) shows that items and furniture are constantly being re-used and borrowed by many different users, and this demonstrates how efficient these spaces can be.

At Edinburgh Napier Libraries, physical books at the end of their lifecycle with us are withdrawn from our collections and enter a new life with Better World Books (further details can be found in our “Green and Sustainability Libraries” 2025 blog post).

Merchiston Library also offers a community library space which works as a book exchange corner where people can leave their own books and take new ones. These books are not part of the catalogue and can be taken freely. This supports the community in circulating and reusing books even further.

Libraries are also learning hubs for DIY skills, which are becoming critical in turning our society greener. At Merchiston Library, you can browse our collection of gardening books and learn how to grow your own food, even in reduced spaces in the middle of the city. At Craiglockhart Library, you will find origami guides and origami paper in our relaxation area – why not try and learn to make origami to embellish your flat or house, instead of buying (often industrially-made) decorations from shops?

 

Re-thinking and recycling library spaces

 

Libraries are already doing an incredible job as green spaces. Depending on their location, they may promote access to surrounding green spaces or bring plants to the library. They also provide solid support for the community’s wellbeing and inclusion, and they encourage the efficient use and cycling of resources.

Many library spaces are not limited to promoting reading and studying; they also bring people together through reading groups, various clubs, and workshops. This demonstrates how versatile library spaces already are and how reusing the premises themselves for various activities reinforces the circular-economy model of regeneration and recycling.

Why not keep diversifying and re-inventing the use of library spaces? In her book The Green Ages: Medieval Innovations in Sustainability, Annette Kehnel explains how we can learn from the past for our future sustainable endeavours. In particular, she describes how our economy can become more sustainable if we focus efforts on repairing things rather than replacing them with new objects produced from scratch, as was customary in the past.

To do so, we need to learn some repair and DIY skills, and libraries seem to be the perfect spaces to teach them. Providing books to learn these skills is a start, but the idea could be further developed and a whole range of workshops organised. For example, why not organise hands-on sewing, bike or furniture repair workshops so people can learn the basics of mending their clothes, bikes and household items? Gardening books were mentioned earlier – why not try to integrate mini greenhouse projects in sunny spaces of libraries or along windows, with users tending to plants and workshops getting people started on growing their own vegetables at home or in allotments?

Organising more events, activities and workshops in libraries will bring people together more, encourage knowledge exchange and help build trust. This is why libraries have the potential to strengthen and make communities more resilient, enabling people to rely on one another for support.

A wealth of different ways and projects can be imagined that put library spaces at the helm of a more sustainable and nurturing society.

 

Bibliography

“Guiding principles for sustainable development”, UK government: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/5a7dcc1640f0b65d8863478d/Guiding_principles_for_SD.pdf

The Green Ages: Medieval Innovations in Sustainability, Annette Kehnel, Publisher: Profile Books, 2024, ISBN: 9781800816251.

“What is the Circular Economy?”, UK Green Building Council (UKGBC): https://ukgbc.org/our-work/topics/circular-economy/

By Adeline Tournier

 

Feeling a bit green, we have plenty of posts for you

Graduation

Class of 2026

07/07/2026 / / 0 Comments

 

 Class of 2026

Your Journey Begins! Congratulations, Class of 2026! Your years of dedication and hard work have finally culminated in this significant milestone, and we couldn’t be prouder of you. As we reflect on the countless study sessions, the frustrations of wrangling with printers, and the turning of pages filled with knowledge, we recognise just how much you deserve this moment. A heartfelt congratulations from the entire library team—we are cheering you on as you take your next steps! As you embark on this new chapter, we have a little reminder: Stay curious. Keep that thirst for knowledge alive, and never stop researching. You never know where your curiosity might lead you, and remember, our libraries will always be a welcoming space for you.

 Join the ENU Alumni Network

Exciting things await you beyond graduation! The Edinburgh Napier University (ENU) alumni community is a vibrant network that spans the globe. The best part? You don’t need to worry about signing up; you’ll be automatically enrolled on your graduation day. Our Alumni Team is dedicated to helping graduates stay connected with each other and with the University. They create a wealth of opportunities for personal and professional development, allowing you to forge valuable connections.

Benefits of Being Part of the Alumni Community:

As a member of the alumni community, you’ll have access to numerous opportunities worldwide. Whether you want to expand your professional network, advance your career, support your business endeavours, reconnect with old friends, or simply relive your university experience, the Alumni Network has your back.

Engaging Events Programme Throughout the year:

The Alumni Team organises a wide array of international events. From business networking gatherings to program reunion celebrations and alumni receptions, there’s something for everyone. These events offer a fantastic chance to make connections and continue fostering those important relationships.

Career Support at Your Fingertips.

Don’t forget, even after you toss your cap in the air, you still have access to Student Futures’ career support for up to two years post-graduation. If entrepreneurship has caught your interest, you’ll benefit from lifelong access to Bright Red Triangle, the University’s enterprise hub. Plus, the Alumni Team offers digital networking groups to support you throughout your career journey.

 Exploring Further Study Opportunities:

If you’re considering postgraduate study at Edinburgh Napier, we have good news! As an alumnus, you’re eligible for a 20% discount on tuition fees for the first year of a full-time course (terms and conditions apply). Additionally, alumni can apply for free library access during the 12 months following graduation. After that, you can maintain access to our library resources at a 50% discount, allowing you full use of library books and study spaces for just £20. Please keep in mind that electronic resources aren’t included in this offer.

Stay Connected Class of 2026

These perks are just a glimpse into the many ways the Alumni Team supports the Edinburgh Napier alumni community. To stay in the loop about opportunities and benefits, we encourage you to keep your contact information up to date and follow our alumni social media channels. This way, you’ll be the first to know about the latest news, events, and exciting opportunities. And remember, education doesn’t have to end here. If you are interested in furthering your studies, why not consider pursuing a postgraduate degree at Napier? The journey of learning never truly stops! Here’s to your bright future ahead. Congratulations again, Class of 2026!

UFO

The truth is out there! – World UFO Day.

02/07/2026 / / 0 Comments

The truth is out there! – World UFO Day.

This 2nd of July is World UFO Day, marking  the 79th anniversary of the alleged UFO crash in Roswell, New Mexico, that helped spark our modern fascination with UFO sightings. UFOs, which means Unidentified Flying Objects, are exactly what they sound like – something in the sky that we can’t quite explain. These can include strange lights, shapes, or what appear to be aircraft in the night skies.

Now, many UFO sightings do have somewhat mundane explanations, such as being tricks of the light, normal human planes, or even just people’s imagination. But that hasn’t stopped many people from speculating that these could be signs of alien life visiting Earth. Humans have been seeing strange and unexplained shapes and images appearing in the sky for a very long time, with some of our earliest know records dating back to over a thousand years ago!

 

UFO phenomena

Some of these instances can be explained by people in the ancient past having a limited understanding of space and physics, which led them to misunderstand phenomena we now see as normal. For example, there are documents from Ancient Rome describing strange objects in the sky that we would now recognise as meteor showers or comet sightings. However, others are much stranger and don’t have such a clear explanation. Such as Chinese writer and inventor Shen Kuo, who in 1088 recorded a series of sightings of a large flying object appearing over the city of Yangzhou at night.

However, it was in the years following the Second World War that the number of UFO sightings really took off (excuse the pun) with 1947 seeing the first widespread reports of UFO sightings in the United States when a pilot claimed to have seen flying discs in the air near Mount Rainer. This story became a media sensation, and the alleged objects were quickly dubbed “Flying Saucers.”
It’s from this that we have the modern community of UFO spotters and investigators, with dedicated groups around the world discussing the phenomenon.

Now, while cultural depictions of UFOs tend to associate them strongly with the United States, the UK has had its fair share of UFO sightings as well. To the point that in the 1950s the UK government set up an official investigative group to study possible UFO sightings and alien encounters, calling the group the Flying Saucer Working Party.

UFOs in Scotland

In fact, did you know that Scotland was at one point the world hotspot for UFO sightings? Yes, really!
Specifically, the village of Bonnybridge, located near Falkirk between Glasgow and Edinburgh, has a history of UFO sightings dating back to the early 1990s, when many locals began reporting strange goings-on in the skies. These strange sightings took all forms, from lights in the sky that assumed strange shapes to alleged sightings of objects landing in fields.

Pretty soon, the area between Bonnybridge, Falkirk, and Stirling was dubbed in UFO circles as “The Falkirk Triangle” and the area would remain a UFO hotspot to this day with hundreds of alleged sightings every year.
Things got so bad that local councillor Billy Buchanan got involved, writing a letter to the Prime Minister asking that the government launch a formal investigation into sightings in the area. Billy is even still trying to raise awareness about UFO encounters to this day!

Just recently, Glasgow was crowned the Alien abduction capital of Scotland, showing that there’s still people out there with a passion for UFO spotting. So why not take the 2nd of July to get involved and maybe do a bit of UFO spotting yourself?

By Matthew Ferrie

Photo by Brian Warrington Unsplash

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wimbledon

Wimbledon 2026

29/06/2026 / / 0 Comments

SSWimbledon 2026

The All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) is the home of the Wimbledon British Tennis Championships, which run from Monday, 29th June – Sunday, 12th July 2026. The Club was founded on 23rd July 1868 as the All England Croquet Club. After a few name changes, it became known as The All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club Limited in August 2011. The first Wimbledon Championships took place in 1877, making it the oldest tennis championship in the world. When it began, Men’s Singles was the only event, but this was soon followed by Ladies’ Singles, Men’s and Ladies’ Doubles tournaments.

 

The Championships

The Championships begin with two days of Gentlemen’s and Ladies’ Singles matches. In total, 128 players are entered into both the Gentlemen’s Singles and Ladies’ Singles competitions.

Wednesday 1st July sees the start of Gentlemen’s and Ladies Doubles, followed by Mixed Doubles on Friday 3rd July. Junior Championships (18 and under) begin on Saturday, 4th July, and the second week hosts competitions for wheelchair competitors and juniors aged 14 and under.

The All England Lawn Tennis Club is a private members’ club with courts being used all year round – except the grass courts, which are used from May to September. The club has a capacity for 42,000 spectators across the 42-acre site, which must be maintained to the highest standard. Ground staff work year-round to maintain the courts and ensure they remain of the highest quality. The grass on the courts is cut to exactly 8mm to ensure the very best tennis. The All England Lawn Tennis Club is a private members club with courts being used all year round – except the grass courts which are used from May to September. However, Centre Court and other Show Courts are only used for the Championships.

Wimbledon is one of four Grand Slam tournaments which include the Australian Open, Roland-Garros (French Open) and the US Open.

Presitge

These are the most prestigious events in professional tennis, each having its own rich history and traditions. The name Grand Slam refers to the accomplishment of winning all four major championships in the same calendar season. Swiss player Roger Federer holds the Men’s record of winning eight Wimbledon Singles titles while Czech-American Martina Navratilova holds the record for the most Ladies’ Singles titles, including the overall most Wimbledon Singles titles won, achieving an incredible nine titles! German Boris Becker is the youngest ever winner of the Men’s Singles title, winning Wimbledon in 1985 when he was only 17, and Swiss Martina Hingis is the youngest Ladies’ Singles winner at the age of 16 in 1997.

 

Dress Codes

Since 1909, green and purple have been the official colours of the tournament after it was discovered that the previous Club colours of blue, yellow, red and green were very similar to those of the Royal Marines. Her Royal Highness, Catherine, Princess of Wales, has been the patron of the Club since 2016 and often dresses in the official colours when attending and presenting prizes at Wimbledon.

The Championships have a strict white dress code. Players must wear appropriate tennis clothing, which must be white. They are only allowed a single trim of colour, no wider than one centimetre (10mm), around the neckline, cuffs, or side seam of shorts, skirts, and tracksuit bottoms. This rule also applies to caps, headbands, bandanas, wristbands and socks. Shoes must also be almost entirely white, with soles and laces completely white. Large, coloured manufacturers’ logos are discouraged.

For spectators, a smart/casual dress code is in place, such as blazers, smart trousers and a collared shirt for men and dresses, jumpsuits or tailored trouser suits for women. If you are fortunate enough to be in the Royal Box or certain hospitality areas, more formal dressing is required. Ripped jeans, running vests, scruffy trainers, sportswear and clothing with offensive or political slogans are prohibited. Large hats, which may block the view of other spectators, are also not permitted.

 

New Balls Please!

During the Championships approximately 55,000 tennis balls are used. The balls are kept in a refrigerator at a constant temperature of 20oC to ensure they stay in tip top condition until they are ready to be used. They are replaced every seven to nine games to make sure they are in perfect shape. Originally, white tennis balls were used in the tournament, but these were replaced with yellow balls in 1986 as they were more visible for television viewers.

French player Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard recorded the fastest-ever serve at Wimbledon 2025, at 153 mph (246 km/h), during his first-round defeat to Taylor Fritz, breaking the long-standing Wimbledon record of 148 mph (238 km/h) set by American Taylor Dent in 2010. The fastest serve in the Ladies’ Singles was recorded by Venus Williams who recorded a speed of 129 mph (207.6 km/h) in 2008.

 

Henman Hill or Murray Mound?

The hill is officially known as Aorangi Terrace, the Māori word for Aoraki (the highest mountain in New Zealand), dating back to when the London New Zealand Rugby Club used the space until 1981. It is a communal viewing area near No. 1 Court, where spectators gather to watch matches on a large screen. It became colloquially known as Henman Hill in the 1990s, when crowds gathered to support four-time semi-finalist Tim Henman in dramatic matches as he tried to win the title.

ince been named after other British players over the years, most notably Sir Andy Murray, to become Murray Mound when, in 2013, he became the first British man in 77 years to win the Singles title. Now, with a new generation of players coming through the ranks, some people have renamed the hill as Radacanu Rise, in support of Emma Radacanu. The media usually still refer to it as Henman Hill, but whatever name is used is often dependent on your age or your favourite tennis player!

 

Food and drinks

Strawberries and cream are synonymous with Wimbledon, having been served at the very first tournament in 1877 and have become a firm favourite ever since. Around 140,000 portions are served up each year, which is about 28,000kg of strawberries and 7,000 litres of cream!

Pimm’s is the quintessential drink of the Championships. The Pimm’s Cup has been a popular cocktail at Wimbledon even before the first Pimm’s bar opened in 1971. It is also served at other major events such as the Chelsea Flower Show, Henley Royal Regatta and Royal Ascot.

2026 is proving to be a bumper year for sport. So, get your strawberries and cream and your Pimm’s cocktail ready for one of the biggest sporting events of the British Summer. Let the games begin!

By Sharon McMichael

Photo by Matthias Davies Unsplash 

It’s sports summer, so have a look at some other sporty posts

National Writing Day

National Writing Day

24/06/2026 / / 0 Comments

National Writing Day

The 24th of June is National Writing Day, a day where creative people across Britain come together to celebrate and practice the art of writing as a form of self-expression, as a way of improving literacy, as a way of creating entertainment for others, or even just because it’s fun to do!

National Writing Day is an initiative organised by First Story, a charity that provides artistic and cultural education to school pupils who might otherwise be unable to access it, with the emphasis, of course, on creative writing. First Story champions creative writing as a fantastic medium for helping young people improve their reading and communication skills, build confidence in exploring new ideas, and learn a skill set that requires discipline and focus.

First Story provides this help to young people through their Young Writers Programme, matching professional writers with schools and having the writers run a sixteen-week workshop that encourages aspiring young writers to develop their writing skills and provides support through editing and proofreading their work. Perhaps most impressive of all, at the end of this workshop, the work the pupils have done will be compiled together and published in a printed anthology – a copy of which will even be catalogued into the British Library!

Writing at Napier

If you’re a student at Napier, you can get involved as well by taking the day to just write something purely for fun. Writing for pleasure can be a great way to unwind now that most of you will be on holiday for the summer, and who knows – you might just be able to make a new hobby out of it!
There’s no need to feel left out if you’re not interested in creating prose fiction either. National Writing Day celebrates all forms of creative writing, whether that be poetry, script writing, essays (although we imagine you might be sick of writing essays by now!) or even just journaling for yourself. You don’t need to fret or worry over if what you’re writing is good enough to show to anyone either, what matters is building up the confidence to write something just for yourself.

Need help getting motivated? Or maybe you’ve been bitten by the writing bug and want to get more involved? If you’re a student here at Napier, Why not consider joining the University’s Creative Writing Society. Ran by students here at Napier, they meet every Monday on our Merchiston Campus to host writing events and competitions, as well as social events outside the university such as picnics or even just casual meetups! The Creative Writing Society can be a great way to meet others interested in creative writing, share ideas and projects you might be working on, and hopefully build up the confidence to share your work with others.

Writing Motivation at the Library

You can also check out some books on writing that we have in the library. I’d highly recommend Stephen King’s “On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft” if which the horror icon talks about his own history with writing, his creative process, and offers some of his treasured advice on aspiring writers. The book positively oozes with infectious enthusiasm for writing and is a great motivator to get started, even if horror isn’t your genre.

So why not get involved? 24th just grab a pen and paper and get to writing!

By Matthew Ferrie

We have a whole range of writing posts to keep you going

Photo by Aaron Burden Unsplash

 

World refugee day

World Refugee Day

20/06/2026 / / 0 Comments

World Refugee Day

This year on the 20th of June the UK will celebrate the 25th annual World Refugee Day, a day in which we honour the bravery of refugees who have had to flee their country in search of a better life, and we celebrate the contributions they make to society. Organised by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, World Refugee Day consists of events hosted by volunteer organisations, government groups, and refugee communities, with over 100 countries around the world taking part in the festivities.
These events can take the form of talks, workshops, exhibitions, or general community gatherings, with some being educational, others entertaining, but all are built around a spirit of solidarity and community.

This year’s celebrations are focused on the right of all people to seek safety and on how this safeguard protects everyone by ensuring that we all have the legal right to seek sanctuary in times of persecution. This right was enshrined by the United Nations in the 1951 Refugee Convention, which defines a refugee and sets the minimum standard of treatment to which refugees are entitled under international law.
World Refugee Day is also celebrated alongside Refugee Week, a wider celebration of the resilience of refugees worldwide, which draws attention to their contributions and creativity. The week is coordinated among several groups, including the British Red Cross, Amnesty International, and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, and features a range of events similar to those I’ve mentioned above.

World Refugee Day and Universities

Universities across the United Kingdom have a long and proud history of supporting refugee communities, and this continues to this way with the Universities of Sanctuary creating a network of higher education institutions that are committed to maintaining a safe and accepting environment of refugees.
Here at Napier, we’re proud to carry on that tradition. The library is one of the most open and welcoming spaces at any university, and indeed in society as a whole. Being a peaceful and open environment where anyone can come and have free access to our catalogue of knowledge, equipment, or even just a quiet area to sit and think for a while.

World Refugee Day and Edinburgh Napier Library

We here at the Edinburgh Napier library team have done our best to ensure that all libraries across our three campuses meet the standards of inclusiveness and acceptance that all libraries should uphold. We do this through our work with the Disability & Inclusion team, ensuring that the library environment and materials meet the requirements for easy accessibility, and by keeping our library catalogue stocked with materials that support and represent our students. This latter point is achieved through our library’s Wellbeing Collection, a curated collection of books that can offer advice and support to members of the university. This covers practical advice on university life, discussions of personal and group identity, and mental health support.

Along with this, we have a variety of other resources in our catalogue that can provide support to members of the refugee community and raise awareness and understanding of their struggles. For example, over on our virtual bookshelves, we have the BIPOC bookshelf, curating books in our collection that tackle issues of race in Britain, a topic that frequently overlaps with refugee issues.
Also in our library catalogue, you’ll find online access to the Journal of Refugee Studies, an academic journal that examines refugee communities and issues worldwide.

By Matthew Ferrie

Photo By Ricardo Gomez Angel Unsplash 

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