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.

Category: Awareness (Page 1 of 2)

Neurodiversity Celebration Week 2026 logo of colourful brain

Neurodiversity Celebration Week 2026

16/03/2026 / / 0 Comments

Neurodiversity Celebration Week 2026

Neurodiversity Celebration Week 2026 takes place from 16th to 20th March 2026. This global initiative continues its mission to challenge stereotypes and transform how society views neurological differences.

Founded in 2018 by Siena Castellon, the week now reaches thousands of schools, universities, organisations, and communities across the world. Its purpose remains clear. It encourages everyone to recognise the strengths and talents of neurodivergent individuals and to build cultures where different minds thrive.

This year introduces two major changes. The first is an invitation for community‑led webinars. Neurodivergent people can now share their lived experiences, research, or ideas directly with a global audience. The second change shifts the conversation toward action. Organisations are encouraged to go beyond awareness and take steps that build sustainable, inclusive environments.

Celebrating Different Minds

Neurodiversity encompasses many ways of thinking and learning. It includes conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, and more. The week highlights the value of these different thinking styles. It also offers resources to help workplaces and schools become more inclusive.

Across sectors, organisations are recognising the importance of psychological safety, flexible communication, and equitable systems. These principles help neurodivergent people contribute their best skills. And they also benefit everyone. Diversity of thought leads to stronger teams, more creative problem‑solving, and healthier working cultures.

Events That Inspire Action

The central theme for 2026 is “From Awareness to Action.” The official schedule includes daily sessions aimed at practical organisational change. These events focus on leadership, equity, universal design, and embedding neuroinclusion throughout the employee journey.

On 16 March, the week begins with a session on building the case for equity. It explores legal, economic, and human‑centred arguments for meaningful inclusion. On 17 March, another session looks at universal design and how flexible environments reduce barriers. The events on 18 and 19 March highlight leadership and practical tools for managers and HR teams. The final event on 20 March explores the future of neuroinclusion, including technology and data‑driven approaches.

These sessions are open to organisations everywhere. They offer a simple way to learn from experts and adopt strategies that make a real difference.

Beyond the official programme, communities are also hosting local celebrations. For example, the University of York will mark the week from 16 to 22 March. Their events include panel discussions and information stands designed to support staff and students. These activities encourage people to share experiences, ask questions, and connect with one another.

Global Community, Local Voices

Around the world, people celebrate Neurodiversity Week in different ways. Cornell University plans a full week of sensory‑friendly events, storytelling, and community activities. Their programme invites volunteers, researchers, and students to participate. It highlights the joy, creativity, and curiosity that neurodivergent people bring to their communities.

Meanwhile, grassroots organisations continue to share tools and resources. The 2026 Social Media Pack offers banners, graphics, and sample messages. These help individuals and organisations spread positive stories and raise awareness throughout the week.

This combination of local and global engagement shows the strength of the movement. It is no longer just a week of awareness. It is a growing network of people who believe in fairness, opportunity, and inclusion.

A Call to Reflect and Act

Neurodiversity Celebration Week reminds us that inclusion is not a single action. It is a continuous mindset. It requires openness, empathy, and a willingness to change systems that limit people.

Short conversations can spark reflection. Small adjustments can reshape workplaces. Listening can shift perspectives.

Everyone has a role to play.

Teachers can create supportive classrooms. Managers can encourage flexible working styles. Parents can advocate for their children. Communities can celebrate the strengths of every mind.

Why This Week Matters

When we understand neurodiversity, we open doors for people to contribute fully. When we value different ways of thinking, we create spaces where everyone feels safe to be themselves. And when we act with intention, we help build a future where neurodivergent people thrive.

Neurodiversity Celebration Week 2026 gives us a chance to do all of this.

And above all, it reminds us that the world needs all kinds of minds.

Edinburgh Napier Support

If you’re a neurodiverse student or member of staff, you can contact our Wellbeing and Inclusion Team to see how the university can support you during your studies. Information about how to contact the Wellbeing and Inclusion Team can be found on MyNapier.

Read more on Neurodiversity here on the blog by visiting our Neurodiversity Bookshelf

By Juliet Kinsey

University mental health Day

University Mental Health Day

13/03/2026 / / 0 Comments

University Mental Health Day

University Mental Health DayThe twelfth of March 2026 marked the 18th annual University Mental Health Day, a day dedicated to raising visibility of mental health issues among student communities, and to combat stigma associated with discussions of mental health.

Originally started by members of the University Mental Health Advisers Network (UMHAN). University Mental Health Day has been held every March since 2008 and has grown to cover campuses across the UK, with mental health activist group Student Minds officially becoming involved since 2012.

So, to mark this year’s University Mental Health Day, we’re going to talk a little about this year’s UMHD theme and tell you about all the ways that Edinburgh Napier can support your mental health during your time studying with us.

This Year’s Theme

Every year, a new theme is selected to focus that year’s University Mental Health Day events. For example, 2024 was centred around the theme of anxiety, with an emphasis on the scenarios students encounter that can cause them to feel anxious, and discussing the techniques students can learn to manage their anxiety.

This year’s theme is human connection, focusing on the issue of university students reporting increased feelings of isolation, and the role of student communities in combatting these feelings of isolation. Despite how large the student population is, government reporting indicates that many students have experienced increased feelings of loneliness over the past few years, along with a fear that they would be judged by others if they express these feelings. This is despite the same government studies indicating that the vast majority of students wouldn’t want to judge others for feeling lonely, highlighting how important it is to reassure students of the support they can get in their own community.

University Mental Health Day at Edinburgh Napier

SMHA

Here at Napier, we have our Student Mental Health Agreement (SMHA) created in collaboration between our Counselling and Wellbeing staff and the members of the Edinburgh Napier Student Association (ENSA) to lay out the goals and activities for both teams and to guarantee the mental health services the university provides to the student population.

You can learn about the SMHA (and read it for yourself!) on the NapierStudents website.

The current edition of the SMHA has been in place since 2024, ensuring that the university offers a range of services through our Counselling & Wellbeing team to support students during their studies. These include counselling services, single session therapy services where students can discuss a specific issue they are having, as well as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy aimed at helping you tackle unhelpful thought patterns.

You can learn all about these services on the MyNapier Wellbeing, Support & Inclusion page, where you’ll also find contact details for our Wellbeing support teams and links to pages that will explain our wellbeing resources in greater depth.

Togetherall

Also, as part of the SMHA, the university provides all our students with access to Togetherall. A 24/7 online community where you’ll have access to free online support, allowing you to talk with others and receive advice in a safe and anonymous environment.

Fittingly for this year’s theme, one of the main goals of the 2024-2026 SMHA is to help nurture a sense of community and belonging in the student population through increasing participation in student-run events and student clubs/societies.

Clubs & Societies

Speaking from experience, becoming involved in a university club or society can be a great way to connect with students who have similar hobbies and interests to you. Some of the greatest friendships I have come from my own participation in different university clubs during my undergraduate studies. I’ve no doubt that many of you who aren’t currently involved in any clubs would benefit from doing so.

You can see what clubs and societies are on offer at Napier at the ENSA website. I’d also recommend the ENSA Events Calendar to see if there are any upcoming student events that might catch your interest.

The Library

Additionally, we have our Wellbeing Collection at each of our campus libraries, with books advising you on how to look after your mental, emotional, and physical health. Furthermore, several members of our library team are trained mental health first aiders, prepared to offer you support whenever you need it.

So please, if you’re ever feeling lonely during your time at Napier, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

By Matthew Ferrie

Read more about wellbeing on the blog with our article: Wellbeing in the library

Image with bright reds and the word courage written in the middle for post University Refugee Week 2026: A Celebration of Courage

University Refugee Week 2026 : A Celebration of Courage

02/03/2026 / / 0 Comments

University Refugee Week 2026: A Celebration of Courage

Refugee Week

Every year in June, the UK pauses to shine a light on the importance of Refugees. Refugee Week brings people from diverse backgrounds together, celebrating the strength, creativity, resilience, and contributions of refugees and people seeking sanctuary. Refugee Week 2026 will run from 15–21 June, with the official theme of Courage.

Courage is central to the refugee experience. It shapes every journey, every decision to leave home, and every step toward a future in a new place. This year, Refugee Week invites us to reflect on what courage truly means. It asks us to recognise courage in many forms. Courage can be loud or quiet, visible or unseen. It can be the choice to speak up or the choice to simply keep going. Regardless, courage drives every story worth telling. Refugee Week connects us to millions of people across the globe who have fled war, persecution, climate disaster, and other forms of violence. It takes place around World Refugee Day (20 June), a United Nations-backed day of recognition. Together, these moments highlight not only struggle, but also hope and human potential.

What the Week Looks Like Across the UK

Across the UK, Refugee Week 2026 will feature events, talks, exhibitions, film screenings, workshops, performances, and community gatherings. Communities large and small use this week to share stories, show solidarity, and celebrate culture. Many events are free and open to everyone. Some highlight artistic expression. Others focus on community building, education, or advocacy. In every case, the aim is the same: to bring people together, to listen, and to learn.

Step by step, these activities remind us that refugees do more than survive. They enrich their communities, teach us about courage in everyday life, and remind us that courage takes many shapes, from the bold to the ordinary. It can be as grand as public resistance and it can be as simple as welcoming a neighbour.

University Refugee Week

University Refugee Week connects higher education communities across the UK in a shared moment of recognition and reflection. It celebrates the strength, talent and determination of refugees and people seeking sanctuary. At the same time, it encourages universities to think carefully about the part they play in creating environments built on welcome, opportunity and genuine belonging.

Throughout the week, campuses host lectures, panel discussions, creative workshops and open forums. These events bring students, academic staff and external partners into conversation. They create space to explore the realities of forced displacement. They also centre lived experience, ensuring refugee voices lead and inform the discussion.

Importantly, the week does more than raise awareness. It challenges institutions to act. Universities can widen access through scholarships and tailored admissions pathways. They can provide mentoring, language support and community networks. They can also shape research, policy and public debate. Step by step, these actions help turn values into practical support.

University Refugee Week will take place from 2–8 March 2026. During these seven days, higher education institutions across the UK will come together with a shared purpose: to strengthen understanding, encourage solidarity and expand meaningful opportunities for those rebuilding their lives through education.

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Safer Internet Day

Safer Internet Day

10/02/2026 / / 0 Comments

Safer Internet Day

The internet has revolutionised many elements of our lives. How we search for information, how we conduct administrative tasks, entertainment streaming, and ultimately how we communicate, connect and network with each other globally. These technologies, including social media, have a variety of benefits and advantages in all of these different aspects of our lives; nevertheless, individuals and online users need to be aware of how to utilise and use the internet in a responsible, ethical and safe manner.

Safer Internet Day was established in 2004 and evolved into a worldwide movement dedicated to raising awareness of and promoting responsible and safe use of the internet and online platforms for all demographics, particularly young people. There are many risks and dangers present within the online world: misinformation, scams, phishing, cyberbullying, revenge pornography and sextortion are just a few of the key dangers present within the internet and online world. This makes it even more significant that awareness is raised regarding how to protect yourself and stay safe online.

 

Tips on how to stay safe online…

 

  • Safeguard your personal details, information and passwords. This can mitigate the chances of you being a victim of identity fraud and other kinds of theft as well. Be wary of whom you also give out these details to. Avoid giving out passwords, especially to someone you do not know well, and try to change them regularly as well.
  • Be mindful about what you post and share online. Once something is posted, whether it is a comment, picture or video, it will be very difficult (if not impossible) to take it back or remove it. Those who see the post may also be able to screenshot, download or share it, which will be completely out of your control.
  • Make sure to keep your device updated with the newest firewall and anti-virus software. Protect your phone, tablet, or laptop from new cyber and online threats by installing and downloading all updates when prompted. This will help to significantly enhance your device security.
  • Be wary of scams, online fraud and fake websites. Always be sceptical of any deals or offers which seem ‘too good to be true’, such as free money or significant investment returns. Look out for grammatical errors in URLs or in the message they may have been forwarded in. Watch out for any messages that also prompt you to take urgent action. If you are unsure about an email, text or phone call you have received claiming to be your bank, HMRC or the police, etc., get in touch with them directly to check legitimacy. Official companies and organisations do not ask for any passwords, PIN numbers, personal details or financial information via text or email.
  • Learn how to identify suspicious emails and phishing scams. Always check the original email address of the sender by clicking on the drop-down arrow under their name, especially if you are unsure of their legitimacy. Look out for misspellings and do not click on any suspicious links or scan any QR codes if the message seems suspicious.

 

Interested in learning more about cybersecurity?…

 

Edinburgh Napier University runs a BEng (Hons) four-year course in Cybersecurity and Forensics. If this happens to be a field of study or work that interests you, we have some recommendations from the ENU library team which can be found, accessed and requested via LibrarySearch.

 

  • Cyber Security Essentials, Graham, James (James J.), editor.; Howard, Richard, 1959- editor.; Olson, Ryan, 1981- editor. 2017. Available at Merchiston Campus Library and Online.
  • GDPR and Cyber Security for Business Information Systems, Gobeo, Antoni, author.; Fowler, Connor, author.; Buchanan, William, author. 2018. Available at Merchiston Campus Library and Online.
  • Cyber Security: Law and Guidance, Tse, Helen, 1977- author, editor., 2018. Available at Merchiston Campus Library.

 

By Rachel Downie

 

Thinking about studying with our School of Computing, read more here 

 

 

LGBT+ History Month 2026 banner image rainbows and science people doing sciency things

🏳️‍🌈LGBT+ History Month 2026🏳️‍🌈

01/02/2026 / / 0 Comments

🏳️‍🌈LGBT+ History Month 2026🏳️‍🌈

Every February, the United Kingdom marks LGBT+ History Month. It’s a time to learn, reflect and celebrate the lives and achievements of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and + communities. The month began in 2005, just after the repeal of Section 28 in England and Wales. It was founded by activists Sue Sanders and Paul Patrick of Schools OUT UK to make LGBT+ people and their histories visible.

This year’s focus is on science and medicine. Honouring LGBT+ contributions to research, healthcare delivery, public health, and patient care. It also challenges the historical harm that LGBT+ people have faced in healthcare systems.

Even today, many LGBT+ people experience barriers in healthcare. Some face discrimination, lack of culturally‑aware services, or mental health challenges tied to stigma. Celebrations like LGBT+ History Month encourage health services to become more inclusive.

Why is LGBT+ History Month important?

  • Understand LGBTQ+ Contributions: Gain insight into the rich history and achievements of LGBTQ+ people, recognising their significant impact on society.
  • Combat Bullying: Address and prevent bullying and discrimination against LGBTQ+ students by fostering empathy and respect.
  • Have Inclusive Education: Teach about LGBTQ+ people and the contributions they have made to make education more inclusive.
  • Celebrate Diversity: Acknowledge and celebrate the diverse identities and accomplishments of LGBTQ+ individuals, promoting a culture of acceptance.
  • Have Role Models: Show positive LGBTQ+ role models so students can see that being LGBTQ+ is something to be proud of.       (Source: The Proud Trust)

Pioneers in Medicine and Health

History often erases LGBT+ contributions. But many LGBT+ scientists, doctors, and health advocates changed the world. Here are a few key figures to celebrate:

Alan Turing (1912‑1954)

Alan Turing was one of the leading mathematicians of the 20th Century. He was a British mathematician and logician who made major contributions to mathematics, cryptanalysis, logic, philosophy, and mathematical biology. He is responsible for breaking the Nazi Enigma code, helping win WW2. Furthermore, his work would help lead to the creation of the modern computer. His most famous work is the paper published in 1950, asking “Can machines think?”

In 1952, Turing was convicted of gross indecency under Section11 of the Criminal Law Amendment Act of 1885. Subsequently, he sadly took his own life not long after in1954. It wasn’t until 2009 that the British Government apologised for, and he was pardoned in 2013.

Sophia Jex‑Blake (1840‑1912)

Sophia was a trailblazing physician. She fought to open medical training to women in Britain. In 1869, she was one of the first women to study medicine at the University of Edinburgh. Her success helped open doors for others. She lived much of her life in a close relationship with Dr Margaret Todd, and many historians consider her part of LGBT+ history.

Cecil Belfield Clarke (1894‑1970)

Cecil was a doctor and innovator in the NHS. Born in Barbados, he studied medicine at Cambridge and then practised in London for decades. He made a lasting contribution with a method for calculating children’s medicine doses that is still in use. Clarke’s life also reflects the reality that many queer people had to keep their relationships private in earlier eras.

Magnus Hirschfeld (1868‑1935)

Hirschfeld was a German physician and sexologist. He challenged medical norms about sexuality and gender long before others. He founded the Institute for Sexual Science and spoke out for LGBTQ+ rights. His work laid the foundation for modern research and queer health advocacy.

Dr Sara Josephine Baker (1873‑1945)

Dr Baker was a public health hero. Working in New York slums, she reduced infant deaths by teaching mothers hygiene and infant care. She lived with her partner Ida Wylie and is now recognised as a lesbian pioneer in health. Her work shows how public health research impacts entire communities.

Alan L. Hart (1890‑1962)

Hart was a transgender physician who helped transform tuberculosis detection. He used x‑ray technology to find and treat lung disease, saving many lives. Hart’s dual identity as a scientist and trans man challenges stereotypes of who can be a leader in medicine.

The Library

Here at the Library, we think it is incredibly important to support and promote equality and diversity. Furthermore, we are working hard to create more inclusive collections and to support our LGBT+ users and staff. For example, we are currently creating a permanent LGBT+ virtual bookshelf here on our blog, and we are training our staff to be inclusive in their actions and the language they use.

Resources

If you are an LGBT+ student, you can join Edinburgh Napier’s LGBT+ Society.   You can also find out more about the student LGBT+ community on the Queer Napier site. Visit our web pages to learn more about becoming an ally. Here on the blog you can check out our virtual bookshelf

In addition, The Library has a wealth of books and articles on the subject. From the history of LGBT+ rights to current Legal information to keep you informed. Use LibrarySearch to find what you are looking for, or contact us for help with any of your research needs. 

Here are some items available through the Library to get you started: 

Same-sex, different politics: success and failure in the struggles over gay rights

Lgbt Activism and the Making of Europe A Rainbow Europe  

Lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans people (LGBT) and the criminal justice system

Equality

By Juliet Kinsey

Read more on our blog with articles on : Alan Turing and Women in Science

World Statistics Day

World Statistics Day

20/10/2025 / / 0 Comments

World Statistics Day

Librarians love statistics almost as much as we love spreadsheets and shelving books – and today we celebrate World Statistics Day! Unlike the other World Awareness Days that we covered on the blog, which have spanned decades. World Statistics Day is relatively new to the global calendar, starting in 2010 and is only celebrated every five years, making each observation more important.

Statistics, you might think, is an odd day to celebrate globally. But statistics help the world go round. The reason why the United Nations have decided to mark their awareness is that statistics are important for social and economic tracking to bring in developing policies.

  • Highlighting the importance of evidence-based policies: Statistics are data that help governing bodies make decisions, whether it be about health care to climate change.
  • Tracking social and economic progress – reliable statistics help us measure employment, literacy and other services, which allows pinpoint areas that need attention.
  • Promoting transparency – transparent tats also hold governing bodies accountable and help the democratic process.

As information professionals, librarians understand the power of data to inform and the potential it has to inspire. So let’s give up for statistics and all the data professionals who help make sense of it.

Theme for World Statistics Day 2025

World Statistics Day has returned with the theme Driving change with quality statistics and data for everyone. The theme is the spotlight for the essential role that reliable, inclusive and high-quality data plays in shaping communities, societies and policies. The year also marks the 80th anniversary of the United Nations, giving more meaningful reflection on how much data collection/cooperation have come, all it has resulted and the potential it can.

 

Statistics have been foundational not only to the UN’s operations but also to addressing worldwide challenges such as peacekeeping, sustainable development, climate change, and public health. The global statistical community exemplifies international cooperation, bringing together professionals from all regions to establish standards, share methodologies, and ensure accurate, timely data. Trusted statistics enable policymakers, businesses, and citizens to navigate complexity and make informed decisions, helping to reveal critical issues and drive meaningful change. (https://www.un.org/en/observances/statistics-day)

Change is built on the information that statistics provide.

Previous themes have been

2010 Celebrating the many achievements of official statistics

2015 Better Data Better Lives

2020 Connecting the world with data we can trust

 

Join the 24-hour Global Statistics Webinar:

The UN Regional Commissions will host a 24-hour global webinar marathon featuring presentations around the world, which will highlight how statistics support development. You can find the link on the United Nations website.

Photo by Nasa Unsplash 

Best online resources for finding news: Times Digital Archive & NexisUni

Dyslexia Awareness Week

11/10/2025 / / 0 Comments

Dyslexia Awareness Week

This week is Dyslexia Awareness Week

What is Dyslexia?

Dyslexia is a learning difficulty which affects millions of people all over the world. It is a life-long neurological condition which often runs in families and affects people’s abilities with reading, writing and spelling.

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

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.

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

People with dyslexia have many strengths including being creative and observant. They can see patterns and trends in data and they are good at problem-solving, often having an intuitive understanding of how something works.

 

Dyslexia Awareness Week.

Dyslexia Awareness Week UK runs from 6th – 12th October 2025.

The theme for this year’s Dyslexia Awareness Week is “Raise the Volume” which aims to focus on young people with dyslexia – telling their stories about the challenges they face and what they have achieved. Raise the Volume aims to ensure that their experiences are being heard in schools, families, workplaces and the wider world.

World Dyslexia Awareness Day is on 10th October 2025 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.

World Dyslexia Awareness Day aims to promote inclusivity, access to education and the application of effective strategies to support the learning journeys of those with dyslexia.

 

 

Supporting People with Dyslexia.

There are a number of 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.

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 

Study Skills at the library blog

 

 

National Read a Book Day

National Read a Book Day

06/09/2025 / / 0 Comments

National Read a Book Day

 

If there is anything us library workers love to promote consistently, is a love of reading. Whether it is a book, eBook, journal, article – you name it, we will always make a point of advertising the benefits of reading. As well as what resources we have to offer. Therefore, National Read a Book Day provides us with a great opportunity to promote both our resources at the library, how to access them (and how accessible they are), and the benefits of reading for literary and personal development, academic progression and overall wellbeing. Although it has unclear origins, National Read a Book Day is widely observed annually throughout the UK on the 6th of September by book lovers, advocates for reading and, of course, us library workers.

 

National Read a Book Day itself primarily encourages the celebration of reading as a simple pleasure and leisurely activity that has many benefits. Did you know that reading for at least thirty minutes a day is thought to potentially increase your life expectancy? This is due to the cognitive enhancement that reading can provide, including better memory, attention to detail and a reduction in stress levels. Stress is a major contributor to the development of heart disease, cancer and stroke, which are all leading causes of earlier fatality. Therefore, reading can potentially act as a preventative measure against stress progressing to a stage where your risk of developing these conditions and illnesses significantly increases.

Reading as a Pastime

 

Many individuals would say that reading is their favourite pastime and recreational activity for relaxation; however, some individuals feel that reading can seem like a chore at times. If you are a student and have been doing a lot of heavy reading and studying for exams and upcoming assignments, that can most definitely be the case, especially if you feel your head has never left a textbook in weeks! The last thing you probably want to do after or during the midst of this is pick up a book. Nevertheless, finding the right book, or even just a fun, light and heartwarming read can feel like a bit of leisure during stressful periods like this. Even if it’s just for a short period of time a day – on your lunch break, just before going to sleep, or even on your daily commute to make it go by a little faster. Audiobooks are also a great way to get lost in a good story on the move – whether you are on the train, bus, or even a walk.

Our Library Catalogue

Although a majority of the stock we hold at our campus libraries consists of academic resources and textbooks, we do have some lighter and more leisurely reads available to borrow and request at Sighthill, Merchiston and Craiglockhart campus. If you happen to be passing by one of our campus libraries and come across a book that interests you on one of our shelves (or displays, we love a display), you can use your student card to take it out on loan at one of our self-service kiosks.

Alternatively, if you have a specific book in mind, you can check if we have it on LibrarySearch and put in a request for it to be kept on our hold shelves for you to collect later on. We will keep it on hold for you for up to seven days. If we do not have the book which you are looking for, you can submit an Inter Library Loan request form, and we can check if another library has it in stock, then request it from them to lend to you through us. Books borrowed from our own campus libraries can automatically renew for up to four months unless requested by another patron and there are no other copies available to meet this request. When it is requested, you will be notified via email and will have seven days to return the book from when this email is sent to you.

 

Here are some recommendations from us at the library for National Read a Book Day…

  • The Comfort Book, Haig, Matt, 1975- author. 2022. Available at Sighthill Library Wellbeing Collection.
  • The salt path, Winn, Raynor, author. 2019. Available at Sighthill Library Wellbeing Collection.
  • The perks of being a wallflower. Chbosky, Stephen author. 2012. Available at Merchiston Library Wellbeing Collection.

 

By Rachel Downie

Photo credit goes to Polina Tankilevitch at Pexels.

Discovering the Future: Research at Edinburgh Napier University image of 3 researchers and a robot

Discovering the Future: Research at Edinburgh Napier University

05/07/2025 / / 0 Comments

Discovering the Future: Research at Edinburgh Napier University

When you think of cutting-edge research, you might picture sprawling labs, scientists in white coats, and complex algorithms running on glowing screens. You’ll find all that—and much more—at Edinburgh Napier University (ENU).

Whether it’s developing AI systems to solve real-world problems, helping veterans reintegrate into civilian life, or leading the charge in sustainable construction, ENU is quietly making a big impact. It’s not just a place to study—it’s a place where ideas come to life.

Let’s take a look at some of the exciting research happening across the university—and how you can get involved.

Research with Purpose

One of the things that makes research at ENU so dynamic is its clear focus on real-world challenges. The university’s work is guided by four key themes:

  • AI & Advanced Technologies

  • Health

  • Culture & Communities

  • Environment

These aren’t just buzzwords. They shape everything from collaborative projects to the kinds of PhDs being offered. You can read more on our research webpages.

Cutting-Edge Tech on Campus

In 2024, ENU took a big leap forward by launching ENUCC—a brand-new high-performance computing (HPC) and AI cluster. It gives researchers and students serious computing power to run simulations, analyse big data, and build AI models.

It’s part of a wider push to make sure students and staff have access to the kind of tech that fuels innovation. Read more about it here: ENU launches new HPC and AI cluster

Cool Projects You Should Know About

Cool Projects You Should Know About

ENU is home to some seriously innovative projects and research centres. Here are just a few standouts:

Swarmchestrate: An EU-funded project using swarm computing and blockchain to develop smart, autonomous digital systems. Think of it as nature-inspired tech!

In 2023, a team of Edinburgh Napier University students participated in a pioneering construction project in Guangxi, China. They collaborated with local universities to build the world’s first bamboo-timber composite gridshell structure. This innovative project aimed to explore sustainable building methods to combat climate change. Among the participants were female students like Devika Vijayan, Alice June Davyson, and Zara Anam Rafiq, who contributed their expertise in architectural technology and civil engineering. The project was led by PhD student Yanghao Pei and supervised by faculty members, including Dr. Ahmed Mohamed.

Research into supporting Scotland’s armed forces at the Centre for Military Research and Public Engagement: Housed at the historic Craiglockhart campus, this centre explores topics like PTSD, military transitions, and veteran education.

Innovation Support & Opportunities

If you’re a student, early-career researcher, or even an entrepreneur, ENU has support for you through its Innovation Hub. From Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs) to funding for start-ups and seed grants, the university is serious about turning ideas into action.

You can check out what’s on offer here:
ENU Innovation Hub
Research, Innovation & Enterprise Blog

Events & Community

From the ENclusion Conference on equity and inclusion to innovation meetups, ENU offers loads of opportunities to get involved, network, and learn.

One highlight is the annual ENclusion Conference, a day-long event packed with talks, panels, and practical sessions.

The Library

Libraries are essential to research because they provide access to high-quality, credible resources—books, journals, databases, and archives—that researchers need to build on existing knowledge. They offer expert support in information literacy, data management, and referencing, helping researchers work efficiently and ethically. Libraries also preserve knowledge and ensure long-term access to scholarly work, including open-access materials and institutional repositories. Simply put, libraries are the backbone of academic research, connecting people with the information and tools they need to discover, question, and innovate. Start your research journey at one of our campus Libraries or by using our wealth of online resources found at librarysearch.napier.ac.uk.

Don’t forget all the useful information on our Library webpages, including study guides and lists of resources.

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Edinburgh Napier University is fast becoming a major leader in Research. Whether it’s AI, sustainability, social justice, or health tech, ENU’s research is focused on creating a better future.

So if you’re curious, creative, and ready to make a difference, this is a great place to start.

Want to know more? Dive into ENU’s Research and Innovation pages or explore funding and partnership opportunities through the Innovation Hub.

By Juliet Kinsey

Read more on research at Edinburgh Napier University here on our Blog, with our latest post on Women in Stem

International Women in Engineering Day image of woman doing some engineering

International Women in Engineering Day

23/06/2025 / / 1 Comment

International Women in Engineering Day

Celebrating Women Engineers: Breaking Barriers, Building Futures

Every year on 23 June, we celebrate International Women in Engineering Day. First launched in the UK by the Women’s Engineering Society, it’s now a global movement. It shines a light on the achievements of women in engineering and encourages more girls and young women to see this as a path for them.

The numbers are improving, but slowly. According to EngineeringUK, women make up 16.5% of the engineering workforce. In 2010, it was just 9%. There’s progress, but much more work is needed.

So, why does it matter?

Diverse teams are better at solving problems. They bring fresh ideas, challenge assumptions, and drive innovation. In engineering, where solutions shape lives—that matters. Gender diversity isn’t a tick-box exercise; it’s essential for future-ready industries.

The UK is home to many trailblazers. Dr. Nike Folayan MBE, co-founder of the Association for Black and Minority Ethnic Engineers (AFBE-UK), champions inclusion across STEM fields. Professor Sarah Hainsworth, a forensic engineering expert and senior leader at the University of Bath, is another standout figure. Their stories are powerful. But for many young women, engineering still feels out of reach.

Education

To get women into engineering, we need to start with early education. A 2022 WISE report showed that girls are much less likely to choose A-level physics, despite doing just as well as boys in GCSE science. Why? A lack of role models. Limited exposure. Persistent stereotypes.

This is where schools, universities, and employers can make a real difference.

Edinburgh Napier University and Women in STEM

At Edinburgh Napier University, change is happening. The School of Computing, Engineering & the Built Environment offers strong support for women entering technical fields. From dedicated mentoring schemes to outreach in schools, the university actively promotes gender balance. Female lecturers and researchers at Napier lead projects in sustainable energy, transport systems, and digital engineering.

Take for example, the work of female PhD students at Napier who are developing smart materials for construction or working on green transport solutions. Their research not only contributes to global challenges but also inspires the next generation of engineers.

Sarah Taylor, a lecturer at Edinburgh Napier University, has been conducting research in smart, light-emitting textiles since 1995. Her work involves integrating optical fibres into woven textile structures, contributing to advancements in smart materials applicable in various fields, including construction.

In 2023, a team of Edinburgh Napier University students participated in a pioneering construction project in Guangxi, China. They collaborated with local universities to build the world’s first bamboo-timber composite gridshell structure. This innovative project aimed to explore sustainable building methods to combat climate change. Among the participants were female students like Devika Vijayan, Alice June Davyson, and Zara Anam Rafiq, who contributed their expertise in architectural technology and civil engineering. The project was led by PhD student Yanghao Pei and supervised by faculty members, including Dr. Ahmed Mohamed.

Women in Engineering  campaigns

Elsewhere in the UK, campaigns like Tomorrow’s Engineers Week, run by EngineeringUK, and events such as She Can Engineer at UCL, continue to highlight female success in the field. INWED itself is packed with virtual events, talks, and case studies—many of them accessible to teachers, students, and parents.

At the same time, the industry is evolving. Companies like Arup, Rolls-Royce, and AtkinsRéalis are investing in inclusive hiring, leadership development for women, and mentoring programmes. But culture still matters. A welcoming workplace—where all voices are heard—makes it easier for women to succeed and lead.

And it’s not just about big firms. Start-ups and SMEs across Scotland and the UK are building inclusive teams, often led by women who studied at universities like Edinburgh Napier.

So, what can you do this International Women in Engineering Day?

  • Share a story of a woman engineer who inspires you.

  • Encourage a girl to explore STEM subjects.

  • Attend a local or virtual event through WES or your local university.

  • Support or volunteer with STEM outreach programmes.

  • Thank the mentors, colleagues, and leaders who make a difference.

Small actions lead to big changes.

Because the future of engineering isn’t defined by gender—it’s built by collaboration, creativity, and courage. Edinburgh Napier University and institutions across the UK are proving that when you back women in engineering, you’re backing innovation for everyone.

By Juliet Kinsey

Read more on women in Science on our blog here: Scottish Women in Science

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