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.

Author: mayagreen (Page 1 of 29)

subject librarians

Subject Librarians

14/10/2026 / / 0 Comments

Subject Librarians

Here at the library, we try our best to provide students with the support they need during their studies, Napier. Whether that be helping you find the books you need in the library or fixing any pesky IT issues you might be having. However, our Information Assistants aren’t the only people at the library who are here to help you. We also have our team of Subject Librarians here to help provide you with in-depth study support and research guides tailored to the different schools here at Napier.

Our Subject Librarians

There are five Subject Librarians in the library, and you can find a full list of them along with their contact details on the MyNapier library help page.
At our Sighthill campus library, we have Catriona Robertson, who serves as the Subject Librarian for the School of Applied Sciences (as well as the Department of Learning and Teaching), and Dawn Adams, who serves as the Subject Librarian for the School of Health and Social Care.
At Merchiston, we have Joyce Templeton at the School of Computing, Engineering & Built Environment, and Sarah Jeffcot with the School of Arts and Creative Industries.
And at Craiglockhart, we have Keith Walker for the Business School, which includes our law degree courses.

Subject Librarian Support

If you’ve got a question for the Subject Librarians or would like to arrange a 1-on-1 session to go over any concerns, you can just get in touch using the details linked above. The 1-on-1 sessions are especially useful if you have any research concerns. For example, if you’re unsure about how to use some of the more specialised and complicated databases used by the university (a common concern among some Health and Social Care students!) then you can get in touch with the Subject Librarian for your school and get the guidance you need.
The Subject Librarians can also advise you on how to understand and best make use of the different referencing styles used by the different departments here at the university, something that you’ll definitely need to get to grips with when it comes to writing your assessments!

Along with answering any questions you might have for them, the Subject Librarians are also responsible for writing the library LibGuides, a collection of in-depth guides to walk you through different aspects of research. These guides are tailored to each of our schools or to different aspects of research (such as reference management or literature reviews), so you can get the exact help you need. If you ever find yourself with a question about how to go about doing your research, then be sure to have a look at the appropriate LibGuide page before contacting the Subject Librarian. You might find out there’s already a LibGuide that has all the information you need.

The Subject Librarians also support you by working with your course lecturers and the library’s Resource Acquisitions team to manage the catalogue of books and journal articles that you have access to through the library.
Each Subject Librarian helps to oversee the library collection for their respective school, and is responsible for ensuring that the university has access to any of the materials included on your course reading lists. If there is a book your lecturer thinks would be just perfect to use as reading material for your module, then it’s up to the Subject Librarian to ensure that we can get a copy of it for the library.

 

We hope that this brief overview has helped you to better understand the role that our Subject Librarians play here at Napier, and the ways that your learning is supported by them, even if you don’t realise it!
And we hope that those of you who feel you need extra support in your studies now know who to contact for the help you need.

By Matthew Ferrie

Dyslexia Awareness.

Dyslexia Awareness.

08/10/2026 / / 0 Comments

Dyslexia Awareness.

What is Dyslexia?

Dyslexia is a learning difficulty that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a lifelong neurological condition that often runs in families and affects people’s abilities in reading, writing and spelling.

People with dyslexia may have difficulty processing and remembering what they see and hear, which can affect their learning. Dyslexia can also affect other areas such as memory, maths, co-ordination, time-keeping and organisational skills.

Approximately 10% of the UK population is thought to be dyslexic, with around 4% being severely affected, but the condition is often misunderstood.

Under the Equality Act (2010), dyslexia can be classed as a disability. Dyslexia can affect children in education, adults in the workplace and situations in everyday life.

Everyone’s experience of dyslexia is different – it can range from mild to severe and can exist alongside other neurodivergent conditions such as ADHD, dyscalculia, dyspraxia and developmental language disorder.

 

Dyslexia Awareness Week.

Dyslexia Awareness Week UK runs from 5th to 11th October 2026.

The theme for this year’s Dyslexia Awareness Week is “Dyslexia in real life: At Work”, which focuses on adults with dyslexia and their experiences at work, particularly the impact that recruitment, communication, organisational processes, management, and access to additional support can have on dyslexic employees.

As a lifelong condition, dyslexia can have a major impact on a person’s working life. Everything from job applications to managing daily organisational tasks to career progression can be affected by dyslexia. Workplaces should be designed to encourage alternative ways of thinking to avoid creating obstacles that make it difficult for dyslexic employees to succeed.

Dyslexia does not lessen an individual’s intelligence or potential. Many people with dyslexia achieve great success. There are many famous people who are dyslexic, including Jamie Oliver, Sir Lewis Hamilton, Keira Knightley, Sir Jackie Stewart, Holly Willoughby, Jennifer Aniston and Sir Richard Branson.

Employees with dyslexia have a diverse range of skills and contribute to the workforce by thinking differently. They have many strengths, including creativity and observation. They can see patterns and trends in data and are good at problem-solving, often with an intuitive understanding of how something works. Workplaces should provide sufficient support for dyslexic employees through assistive technology and reasonable adjustments, enabling them to thrive in all aspects of their working lives.

World Dyslexia Awareness Day is on 8th October 2026 and is a global initiative which aims to raise the profile of dyslexia. It is committed to increasing awareness and understanding of the condition. It reminds us of the importance of supporting those with dyslexia by promoting inclusivity, access to education, and the use of effective strategies to support their learning journeys.

World Dyslexia Awareness Day aims to raise the profile of dyslexia for policymakers, educators, employers and the general public. Dyslexia is one of the most common learning differences, with around 700 million people affected worldwide. As well as raising awareness, World Dyslexia Day highlights the rights, capabilities and accomplishments of those who live with the condition. Dyslexia is a common condition which can be managed effectively with the correct support, and people with dyslexia can achieve their full potential.

 

Supporting People with Dyslexia.

There are several ways you can support people with dyslexia. First, learn about the condition and how it can affect people. Share information about dyslexia via social media to raise awareness; campaign for inclusive educational practices that accommodate students’ needs; support dyslexia organisations either by donating or volunteering; and encourage and support those with dyslexia to achieve their goals.

Employers should ensure workplaces are supportive environments that promote understanding, remove barriers, and inspire creativity, where dyslexic employees can contribute, develop skills, and prosper within the organisation.

Here at Edinburgh Napier University, the Disability Inclusion Team are available to ensure that every student has equal access to university life. The team can help students access the support they need during their time at university. The team work across all three campuses and offer support to students with a variety of learning difficulties, disabilities, and other support needs.

There are also a number of organisations which can provide information and support including Dyslexia Scotland, The Dyslexia Association and British Dyslexia Association.

 

Find out more:

Use LibrarySearch to find books and articles about Dyslexia.

 

By Sharon McMichael

reading

Wee Read Campaign 2026

07/10/2026 / / 0 Comments

Wee Read Campaign 2026

 

Most of us may have a wee read every day, which can include, but is not limited to, reading and do not identify with being a reader. Despite the fact that most of us may have a wee read every day, which can include and is not limited to reading the news, graphic novels, recipes, letters, emails, and even social media posts and content. The Wee Read campaign, which takes place on the 7th of October this year, celebrates all forms of reading. Whilst also encouraging individuals and communities to incorporate reading for leisure into their everyday lives and routines, whether this is for the first time in a long time or more often than they usually already do.

 

Fun Facts about Reading…

 

  • There is a strong link between reading for leisure in childhood and better academic performance and mental well-being later in an individual’s life.
  • Reading for leisure has a more significant influence and impact on a child’s cognitive development than their parent’s level of education or socioeconomic background.
  • Studies have shown that those who read for leisure often have higher self-esteem and resilience. Reading regularly for leisure is also associated with better sleeping patterns and quality.
  • Higher literacy rates are associated with higher employment rates and wages. Career progression is strongly linked to an individual’s level of literacy.
  • Reading for leisure has academic, economic, and socioeconomic benefits – 44% of those who identified as regular readers reported better mental health and well-being. This is compared with 23% of those who rarely or never read for leisure. This could coincide with the other various benefits that reading has, one of which is better sleeping patterns as mentioned!

 

All facts and statistics can be found in the Wee Read website. The benefits of reading for leisure for health, well-being, longevity, the economy, quality of life, and community are vast. This is a big part of why we and many other library institutions across Scotland have chosen to promote the Wee Read campaign this year.

 

Our participation in this year’s Wee Read campaign…

 

The Wee Read campaign is primarily run by libraries across Scotland, in collaboration with mental health charities, book retailers, educational institutions, and third-sector organisations, to promote reading nationally. One of the main objectives of this campaign is also to encourage patrons to use their local libraries more! Edinburgh Napier University campus libraries will be participating in the Wee Read campaign taking place this year on the 7th of October.

We will be setting up displays in our three campus libraries featuring fiction, poetry, graphic novels, comics, manga, and some non-fiction titles on wellbeing and general life. Some titles will also be set aside for a “Blind Date with a Book” activity where we will get willing patrons to take a slip from the desk with a number that will assign them a corresponding text to read for the Wee Read challenge.

 

Don’t worry! If the title does not sound like your cup of tea, you do not need to, borrow it or take it out on loan. This is simply an attempt to encourage you to step out of your comfort zone and discover new reads, genres, and books that may surprise you and that you might not usually read or pick up in a local bookstore or library! Have a book suggestion of your own that you would like to share? Feedback boxes and slips will also be put up in all three of our campus libraries where you can write any book recommendations you may have and share them with us.

What patrons have to say about public libraries…

 

Public libraries make reading free and accessible to all, but this is not the only purpose that they serve in society. They also serve as vital community hubs that provide patrons with digital access, printing facilities, Wi-Fi, and a quiet, warm space to study, read, or rest. It is a safe space where individuals can remain indefinitely without obligation to pay for any services. Public libraries welcome all patrons and serve a vastly diverse audience that may include people with protected characteristics.

 

Overall, many individuals greatly value public libraries – the Wee Read website has feedback recorded and highlighted regarding the positive impact public libraries have had on patron’s lives and the lives of their loved ones as well. Some of the quoted feedback is as follows:

 

  • “Libraries rekindled my passion for reading and studying. I wish I had discovered public libraries sooner.”
  • “Our local library is a village hub where people come together. It fosters a love of reading across all ages in the community and is a vital resource.”
  • “Since having children, the library isn’t just for my pleasure (browsing/borrowing books) but to encourage this love of reading for them.”
  • “It’s a comfort to know that I can easily access reading material at no cost whatever happens in my life but also have access to knowledgeable, professional staff who are kind and willing to help.”

 

Our Displays on Campus…

 

Our Wee Read campaign displays have been set up in all three of our campus libraries and have numbered slips to take and then bring to our library helpdesks where a member of our library team will issue you the book corresponding with the number on the slip you have selected. We also have suggestion boxes where you can write and post recommendations in for what could be included for the next Wee Read campaign and perhaps even to be added into our own library stock!

 

 

Got any questions about the Wee Read campaign 2026? Email library@napier.ac.uk, phone 0131 455 3500 or visit our library helpdesks during our staffed hours (Monday to Friday, 8:45am – 16:45pm).

 

By Rachel Downie

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Europe

European Day of Languages

26/09/2026 / / 0 Comments

European Day of Languages

European Day of Languages is celebrated on 26th September every year. Established in 2001, it is a joint initiative by the Council of Europe and the European Commission. Both organisations worked together in 2001 to organise the European Year of Languages. Aimed at the general public to encourage lifelong learning, the European Year of Languages proved to be a phenomenal success, with so many people from 45 countries taking part in activities to promote language learning and protect cultural diversity. The Council of Europe announced that the European Day of Languages should be recognised every year thereafter. It has since been celebrated throughout the EU and further afield.

Aims of the European Day of Languages

The aim of the European Day of Languages is to encourage people of all ages to learn a language. It is promoted by a wide number of organisations, including education ministries, language institutes, cultural organisations, schools and community groups throughout Europe. The theme for European Day of Languages 2026 is “Languages Unite!”, celebrating the many ways languages bring people together, improve understanding, and foster connections across cultures and communities.

The European Union has 24 official languages, although there are estimated to be over 225 languages across Europe.  The 24 official EU languages are: Bulgarian, Croatian, Czech, Danish, Dutch, English, Estonian, Finnish, French, German, Greek, Hungarian, Irish, Italian, Latvian, Lithuanian, Maltese, Polish, Portuguese, Romanian, Slovak, Slovenian, Spanish and Swedish. Croatian became the most recent official language of the European Union, bringing the total number of official EU languages to 24 in 2013. Some countries have two official languages e.g., Welsh and English in Wales, Basque and Spanish in the Basque country and Catalan and Spanish in Catalonia.

Learning Languages

Learning languages can be fun and can help us to discover more about other cultures and establish good relationships with others. There are many significant benefits to learning a language. The act of learning a language keeps your brain active and can aid memory, concentration and creativity. It makes travelling easier and allows you to feel more at home when you are overseas. Even a little knowledge of a language can help break down barriers.

People from other countries often appreciate it when you try to use their language, and it’s okay if you make a mistake – it’s all part of the learning process! You can increase your cultural understanding by reading books, watching films, television and news programmes in a foreign language. It can also boost your self-confidence and develop your social skills by enabling you to communicate, interact and cooperate with others, which, in turn, could lead to greater employment opportunities. Having another language makes living, working and studying within Europe more accessible. The EU language policy recommends that pupils in schools be taught two additional languages in addition to their mother tongue. It is believed that this will increase their chances of living fulfilling lives, improve their employment prospects and allow them to actively participate in society.

Why not celebrate this year’s European Day of Languages by committing to learning a language? It can be as simple as learning a few conversational phrases for a forthcoming holiday to help you communicate. There is no single way to learn a language. Everyone learns differently, so here are a few hints and tips to help you get started. Try different methods and see which one, or which combination, works best for you.

  • Learn the basics. A few keywords and phrases, such as basic greetings and simple dialogues, can help to build your confidence.
  • Practise little and often: 10 – 15 minutes per day instead of one long weekly session. Short bite-sized sessions will help to keep you motivated.
  • Memorise whole phrases such as “I would like…” rather than individual words. This will help with sentence structure.
  • Read and speak aloud. Read texts and/or newspapers out loud from day one to train your mouth and ears to process new sounds simultaneously. Make lists and say them out loud. Memorise orders in a bar or restaurant.
  • Write words on Post-it notes and spread them around the house.
  • Watch TV and videos in the language you are learning. You will become familiar with the sounds and pick up occasional words and phrases.
  • Repeat activities to reinforce what you have learned.
  • Visit a place where you can practise using the language you are learning.
  • Revisit something you did at the beginning of your learning journey. You’ll be surprised at how much you have learned!

 

Here are a few websites to help you start your language learning journey:

Learn a Language

 OpenLearn – Open University

BBC – Learn a language? Why? Which? How?

 

The European Day of Languages brings people together to celebrate their diversity and aims to inspire others, regardless of age, to learn a new language and discover the importance of multilingualism. It raises awareness of how learning new languages increases our understanding of other cultures and helps us build relationships with others.

Whether it’s your first time learning a foreign language or you are learning another one, it will be a worthwhile experience. Learning a new language comes with many benefits and presents so many more possibilities for life and work regardless of your age. With such a variety of languages spoken across Europe, you will be spoiled for choice when it comes to choosing which language to research on your European Day of Languages.

Happy European Day of Languages. Enjoy your learning!

 

Photo by Christian Lue Unsplash 

 

 You can read about European traditions

subject librarians

Reading Lists

25/09/2026 / / 0 Comments

ere Reading Lists

 

Your set reading lists for your modules will be the bread and butter of your research and further study in your specific subject area. Reading lists will also make it easier for you to find, access, and request relevant resources for your coursework and assignments, with all materials categorised as essential or recommended reading for your subject area and modules. All reading list resources and materials are usually up to date and tailored to your specific module and its content for specific weeks throughout each trimester.

Accessing Reading Lists

There are a few ways to access reading lists for your modules. You can find your course reading list on your module pages in Moodle, or search for it in Leganto. If you go into our LibrarySearch catalogue, there is a tab titled Reading Lists above the search bar that takes you directly to these pages.

reading list

Once you click on the reading list tab, you can then put in the module code for your specific subject and access the reading list from there. You will often find that the resources listed are organised under a drop-down menu titled ‘essential’ or ‘recommended’ reading, clearly defining which resources are compulsory reading for parts of your course and which may be useful. You can then click on all the essential and recommended resources and webpages, which will include links to access them via a database we subscribe to or a specific website or link. Physical books and resources have a tab when you click on the full details of the item in which you can place a request for the specific book or item that you need for your research.

Requesting

reading list

Once you click the ‘Request’ button, you will be asked where your preferred campus is to collect the book from and given the opportunity to leave a note if there is anything you would like to ask or inform us about. Requested items will be kept on our hold shelves for up to 7 days altogether before being reshelved. Once collected and checked out at our self-service kiosks, they will automatically renew for up to four months whilst on loan to you unless recalled to fulfil another request. Don’t worry – you will receive an email notifying you if this is the case, and you will have 7 days from the date this email is sent to return the book!

Reading List Material

Some of the books, journals and articles that you will come across on our reading lists will only have digital access provided – usually, to access online resources, a link to a specific database or databases will be provided within the item record. Some E-books can be downloaded; however, others often only allow you to save or print a limited number of pages.

reading list

There are some academic journals and databases may ask you to log in with your student number and password. Databases are accredited academic search engines and websites that give you access to a wide range of up-to-date, high-quality research, articles, and materials. You will find that you will use databases more and more as you progress through your course.

 

More information about Reading Lists, including how to create one, add items and publish one is available in our LibGuide.

 

By Rachel Downie

 

More library information, your subject librarians are there to help

subject librarians

Inter library loans

17/09/2026 / / 0 Comments

Interlibrary loans

One of the great perks that you get when you become a student at Edinburgh Napier University is access to our library catalogue, which consists of thousands of books and online articles that you can use to help you in your studies. These books and articles can easily be found, requested, and read through our Library Search, which you can access through the tile on your student app or through a web browser.

However, at some point during your studies, you might feel like you need access to a book or article that isn’t part of our library catalogue. In cases like this our Inter Library Loan (ILL) Service has got your back.

Inter Library Loans allows you to request access to books and articles that are not normally part of our library catalogue. You simply submit a request for the material that you need and the ILL team will get in touch with another university in Britain to see if they have a copy that they would be willing to loan us.
Need access to an article from a journal the university doesn’t have a subscription to? Maybe the ILL team can see if there’s a university who can send us a PDF.
Is there a book that would be just perfect to cite in your assignment, but the university doesn’t have it? The ILL team can check if there’s a university close by who’d be willing to send us their copy.

The ILL service is free to use for students and staff at Napier, but please keep in mind that the university is actually paying for this service on your behalf. So only submit a request for material that you’re absolutely certain you need (and try not to request too much at once!)

We should also note that there are some restrictions to what material we can get through ILL. For example, you won’t be able to request copies of dissertations or theses, and we aren’t able to provide you with access to full copies of e-books. However, we can maybe get you a copy of one specific chapter if that is suitable.

Now let’s go over how exactly the ILL service works.

You can find the ILL service through Library Search by clicking the InterLibrary Loans tab above the search bar and signing into your university account.

Inter Library Loan

Once you’re logged in, you’ll have to select what type of material you’re requesting and then fill out a form provide us with information such as the title, author name, and what journal it is part of if you’re requesting an article. If you only need one book chapter, then you might want to let us know the specific pages as well. You’ll also have to select which of our campuses you would like to collect books from. Articles that you request will be sent to your student email address.

Please make sure that you’ve selected the correct option from the top of the page before you fill out the form. Selecting the wrong option will result in the request being rejected, and you will have to resubmit correctly.

Inter Library Loan fees

Once the request has been submitted, the ILL team will first check if it is necessary for us to get the material through ILL. You’d be surprised at how often people request books through ILL without first checking to see if we already have it in the library!
Many online articles are also available through Google Scholar, so you might want to have a quick check on there before submitting an ILL request.

If the book isn’t available in our catalogue or through Google Scholar, then the ILL team will do a search of our partner institutions to see if any of them have a copy of the material they would be willing to loan us.

For articles and book chapters, these will usually arrive quite quickly as our partners will email them to us in their preferred format – sometimes they send us a PDF, sometimes they’ll send us an encrypted link that can be accessed using a password they provide. We’ll then pass this on to you so you can get to studying!

Please keep in mind that the format the material is provided in is decided by our partner institution, and that these formats sometimes come with restrictions such as links only being accessible a certain number of times or expiring after a certain number of days.

For physical books, we ask that you please be patient and wait at least fifteen days for the book to arrive in the mail from our partner library.
The return date for ILL book is set by our partner library so we ask that you collect the book from your requested helpdesk as soon as you can. You have no idea how many people have come to collect an ILL at the last minute only to discover that our partner library expects the book to be returned to them the very next day!
Once the book arrives it must be collected and returned to one of our library helpdesks during staffed hours (8:45AM to 4:45PM, Monday to Friday) Additionally, ILL books cannot be sent out to you through Postal Loan the way our normal catalogue can be.

As these books are not the property of Edinburgh Napier, we ask that you please be extra careful and look after them when you have them out on loan. Also, you should keep in mind that our partner libraries have the right to recall books at any time. In this case we will email you to let you know when the book should be brought back to us.

This blog post ended up a bit longer than expected, but that’s only because there’s a lot to talk about with our ILL service!
This year alone we’ve supplied over four hundred books and articles to our students and staff through our ILL service, and in turn we’ve lend hundreds of our own books and articles to other universities across Britain.
So why not get involved yourself? It’s a great way to get your hands on some unexpected study material that your classmates might not even know about.

By Matthew Ferrie

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

September

September Starts

16/09/2026 / / 0 Comments

September Starts

It’s halfway through September; studies are on their way, and the justification to eat Halloween sweets is getting closer.

 

Welcome to Trimester One

Can you believe we’re already halfway through the first week of teaching for Trimester One? As everything starts to settle, we wanted to take a moment to share some fantastic library services tailored for both our undergraduate and postgraduate students. Whether you’re familiar with everything we offer or just discovering the resources available, this post is a handy guide to help you on your academic journey.

Academic Skills and Study Support

First and foremost, the Academic Skills Team should be your go-to for any support in your studies. They provide practical advice regarding your coursework, which can be especially crucial as you navigate the heavier workload often associated with a postgraduate program or navigate your undergraduate program for the first time. You can arrange a one-on-one appointment or attend walk-in sessions on campus. More details are available on their web pages. To make things even easier, they have also produced short pre-recorded videos on Panopto, giving you academic tips in bite-sized formats. Be sure to check out MyNapier for all the information you need related to academic skills and support for research students, including answers to frequently asked questions about research degrees. And we can’t stress how wonderful they truly are.

And Maths Plus, organised by lecturers from the School of Computing, Engineering, and Built Environment, will return to the Merchiston Library soon. we will keep you posted. Maths Plus is 1 on 1 support to help with any mathematical problem.

Our Online resources

If you’re looking for resources, our LibGuides are designed to help you quickly find relevant information specific to your area of study. They offer advice on searching for both print and electronic resources, recommend useful websites, and provide access to databases. Additionally, you can explore our A-Z list of subscribed databases, complete with trial access for your research needs. Our detailed subject guides cover every school within the university, along with resources for conducting literature reviews, developing critical thinking skills, and understanding referencing styles such as APA 7th edition. And our subject librarians are always there for contact if you would like 1-to-1 support, whether on campus or online.

Training and Events Calendar

Throughout the year, we host a variety of workshops and training sessions led by our knowledgeable library staff. These workshops aim to enhance your academic skillset, covering topics like literature reviews and reference management systems such as Endnote and Mendeley. You can easily sign up for these sessions through Libcal, and don’t worry if a session fills up—more will be scheduled throughout the year to ensure you have plenty of opportunities to participate! For more detailed information about our training offerings, head over to the Home page of the Edinburgh Napier University website.

Study Spaces and Relaxation Areas

Each of our campus libraries has a range of study spaces tailored to fit various needs. Whether you require a silent study area to focus on your coursework or a collaborative space to work with classmates, you will find what you need. Our study rooms can be reserved through Resource Booker and most are equipped with PCs, whiteboards, and plasma screens. For students with young children, we also have our family rooms at Merchiston and Craiglockhart.

Wishing you the best of luck

Funnily we have lots of study support posts

campus

Campus guide

14/09/2026 / / 0 Comments

Campus guide

At Napier, we have three university campuses spread across the city of Edinburgh, each of them outfitted with state-of-the-art facilities to assist you in your studies, and each of them serving as the central hub to our different academic schools, with the library catalogue of each campus being focused on that campus’s academic departments.
Speaking from experience, we know that it can be a bit confusing for students (and staff!) to keep track of what things are at each campus, so we thought we’d put together this very quick campus guide to help incoming students get familiar with each campus – and maybe to try and jog the memories of returning students!

Merchiston Campus

First up is Merchiston, our oldest campus and home to the School of Arts and Creative Industries (SACI) along with the School of Computing, Engineering, and Built Environment (SCEBE)
It’s actually from the history of Merchiston that Napier gets its name. The campus is built around Merchiston Tower, which was the family home and birthplace of John Napier, a 16th-century Scottish mathematician who discovered logarithms and helped popularise the decimal point!
Although the tower is typically closed to the public, it is occasionally open for guided tours. So keep an eye out for any upcoming tours if you ever want to get a peek inside!

At Merchiston, you’ll find professional-standard facilities ready to provide you with some hands-on experience in creative fields, such as music recording studios and a news broadcast room. You’ll also find our Merchiston library, with a full catalogue of books covering creative subjects, computing, and engineering, as well as eleven study rooms and dozens of desktop PCs in an open-plan environment with a bright.

But perhaps the most notable feature of Merchiston is the Jack Kilby Computing Centre (JKCC) A 500 seat computer lab complete with all the facilities you’ll need for your studies, including desktop computers, printers, and laptops available for loan. There is also a helpdesk where our student helpers will be available to provide you with any IT support you might need during your time here, from resetting your university password to connecting you to our precious Wi-Fi!
Merchiston is also where you can find the offices for ENSA – the Edinburgh Napier Student’s Association which serves as the university’s student union and is there to provide you with advice and support during your studies, as well as organising social events for you to meet and get to know other Napier students. ENSA also organises and oversees dozens of student societies and sports clubs active at the university.

You’ll find Merchiston in the southside of Edinburgh between Bruntsfield and Morningside, just down the road from Holy Corner (an area named because of the large number of churches it has). This makes it our most centrally located campus, and as a result, it is well served by Edinburgh’s public transport. Bus routes 11, 15, 16, 23, 36, and 45 all stop at Holy Corner just a short walk from the campus, while the 45 bus stops just across the street.

Craiglockhart Campus

Next up is Craiglockhart, home of the Business School and located in the former Craiglockhart Hydropathic Building, a Victorian-era facility that originally served as a healthcare facility before becoming a military hospital during the First World War. The most notable feature of Craiglockhart has to be the Lindsay Stewart lecture theatre, which seats 200 people and looks sort of like a giant silver egg attached to the front of the building.

Our Craiglockhart library is directly downstairs from the entrance atrium and has an open-air plan, meaning if you’re in the library, you can just look up and see right into the entrance atrium above you. Here you’ll find our catalogue of books on business and law studies, collaborative study desks, and separate rooms for quiet and silent study.
One of the most interesting parts of Craiglockhart is the War Poets Collection, an archive of over 800 items relating to the famous First World War poets who spent time at the building back when it was a hospital for British army officers. You can find many of these items on display in the campus atrium.

The Craiglockhart campus is located in the southwest of the city, between Morningside and Colinton, in a quiet suburb. If you ask me, this is maybe our prettiest campus. The building is surrounded by grass and trees, and the back of the campus opens onto Craiglockhart Hill, which offers a lovely view of the surrounding area. I’ve known more than one person who enjoyed spending their lunchtime going on quick walks of the hills, or otherwise just having a little picnic in the sun!
Craiglockhart is serviced by bus routes 4, 10, 27, and 45. It is also a quick walk uphill from Slateford train station.

Sighthill Campus

Finally, there is Sighthill, the newest of all our campuses and home to the School of Health and Social Care (SCHSC) and the School of Applied Sciences (SAS)
Sighthill might be the most high-tech of all our campuses. At Sighthill, you’ll find the Clinical Skills Centre, where our healthcare students can practice what they’ve learned in a simulated environment that closely reflects the atmosphere of a real hospital.

Sighthill also has our largest library, with over 200 computers and 9 study rooms spread across five floors of the Learning Resource Centre (LRC). On the first floor, you’ll find a social area with some tables for socialising and studying. On the second floor, there is our library and IT helpdesk, along with some printers, dozens of computers, and some laptops for you to borrow. Floors three and four house our book catalogue and serve as our silent study floors. And on the fifth floor you’ll find some group study rooms, along with the Horizon Suite – a conference room that has a beautiful view of the surrounding area.

At Sighthill, you’ll have access to ENGAGE Fitness, our on-campus gym and sports facility, which is open to Napier students and members of the public. At Engage you’ll find Olympic weightlifting equipment, as well as a sports hall that can be booked out for badminton, basketball, five-a-side football, and other games.
Sighthilll is also the administrative centre of Napier, being the campus where you’ll find many of our student support departments such as the International Support team, and the Finance office.

You can find Sighthill west of the city centre just off Calder Road in the suburb of Sighthill. The campus is served by bus routes 3, 21, 25, 33, 34, and 35. You can also get here quickly by tram, with the Bankhead Loan tram stop just being a short walk away from campus.

This post has been a long one – but then, there’s lots to say and see at our campuses!
Your studies will mostly be centred around one campus, but hopefully this post has you excited to go visit the others while you’re here!

By Matthew Ferrie

We have lots of campus posts, learn about their quirks and histories

welcome

What do you wish you had known in first year of University?

07/09/2026 / / 0 Comments

What do you wish you had known in first year of University?

 

Starting university is often a significant, exciting but also daunting transition in one’s life. Whether you have moved to the city where your new university is based, commute to the university or have enrolled as an online student, there is often so much to learn, prepare for, and organise – particularly in the first couple of months. This goes beyond just the academic side of university life alone as well – for many students in their first year of university, they may also be living out for the first time, learning to manage finances and budget, making new friends and navigating many other aspects of university life as well. That first year of university often flies by as well, and sometimes, there are things we discover or come across later on in our university careers and life that we wish we had known in our first year.

 

So, we are now allowing you to tell us what you wish you had known in your first year of university! What life lessons, wisdom, and information would you like to pass down to other students commencing their first year of university with us? Pop by one of our campus libraries over the next few weeks and check out our Welcome Week displays where you can leave a Post-it note with a message for our new students (and for us if you wish)!

 

What many students wish they had known in their first year of university…

 

  • Most students wish they had budgeted more, and more wisely. There is often so much going on in your first year of university, academically and socially. This can make it difficult to save money, which is why it is important to make the most of any student discounts you can get, whether it’s on food, entertainment or clothes. Another good way to save money – visiting the library! You can borrow books for free from us rather than buying them, especially textbooks as these can often be very expensive to purchase!

 

  • Start early and plan your studies. You will thank yourself later! Start to search for, save and make notes on any relevant sources and articles you come across for upcoming assignments as early as possible before they are due. Break down each part of the assignment into small, manageable daily tasks by deciding, for example, that you are going to write one chapter or section a day – you may find yourself finishing two or more in fact if you get really into the flow of writing. It is often starting that is the hardest part! Make the most of what our campus libraries have to offer by using our study spaces, physical and online resources, and Libguide, and ask us for help if you need extra support with anything.

 

  • Reference as you go! Leaving your referencing in an assignment, project or dissertation to the last minute never usually ends well – it extends the amount of time it can take to input them all through each page and into the bibliography at the end. It can also lead to you losing or forgetting the source the reference came from in the first place! If you are stuck or need some extra help with referencing, check out our Referencing in APA 7th Style guide in our Napier LibGuide.

 

  • Health is wealth – take care of your physical and mental health! This can include learning to cook health and nutritious meals, exercising, going out with friends, devoting time to hobbies and of course, resting! Make sure to take some time out to relax when you can so that you will feel rested and recharged when you start conducting research and revision again.

 

  • Join societies and social activities to meet your people. Most of your first year of university will involve meeting new people and making new friends along the way. One of the best ways to do this is to join as many societies and social activities as you can, particularly where you are likely to share common interests with others.

 

  • Explore and familiarise yourself with your city and campus. Check out your local shops, cafes, restaurants and green spaces, as well as spots on campus such as your union, social spaces and campus libraries. You may find a new favourite place to study or meet up with friends in the process!

 

  • Ask for help! There are various teams across our three campuses at Edinburgh Napier University which can assist and support you with matters such as finances, academic skills, wellbeing, accommodation and admissions. Our campus libraries are also here to help with matters regarding your studies and research.

 

Book Recommendations…

 

Here are some book recommendations from us which give useful advice and tips on how to make the most of university life in your first year and beyond this. All of these can be borrowed and requested through our LibrarySearch catalogue.

 

  • Starting university: what to expect, how to prepare, go and enjoy, Scallan, Melissa, author.; Salmon, Louise (Editor) editor.; Shields, Molly, illustrator. Second edition. 2021. Available at Sighthill, Merchiston and Craiglockhart campus libraries.
  • Manage your money. Smale, Bob, author. 2019. Available at Merchiston campus library.
  • The little book of student food. Williams, Alastair, 1969- author. 2019. Available at Craiglockhart campus library.

 

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 
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