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Edinburgh Napier University

Category: Campaign (Page 1 of 2)

International Day of Persons with Disabilities

International Day of Persons with Disabilities

03/12/2025 / / 0 Comments

International Day of Persons with Disabilities

 

Within the UK alone, approximately 16.8 million individuals were recorded as having a disability in a research briefing published on the House of Commons Library webpages. This makes up a quarter of the UK population. This is also a 41% increase from the number of persons reporting a disability within the last decade.  Anyone can, at any point in time, develop and be diagnosed with a disability. A disability is recognised under the Equality Act 2010 as being a physical or mental impairment which has a prolonged and substantially negative impact on their ability to carry out regular tasks and day-to-day activities.

 

Living with a disability can come with many challenges and hardships. And can have a profound effect on the physical and mental well-being. International Day of Persons with Disabilities takes place annually on the 3rd of December. And is a UN-led, global observance and advocacy of the rights of persons with disabilities in the workplace and society. As well as a promotion of their achievements and contributions worldwide.

 

The Equality Act 2010…

 

The International Day of Disabled Persons was proclaimed in 1992 by the UN.  Since served as an important reminder to government bodies, organisations and public institutions to regularly evaluate and enhance their policies and practices to promote inclusion and accessibility. As well as ensuring that their rights are respected and that they are not discriminated against. This is also something which the Equality Act 2010 adheres to, particularly in workplace practices and employment law. It ensures that everyone, regardless of disability and other protected characteristics, has legal protections in the workplace. This makes it unlawful for someone else or their overall employer to discriminate against them. It also ensures that employers put accommodations in place to meet the needs of employees regarded as having a disability or disabling condition.

 

Not every disability is visible, and not every disability presents the same way. The Sunflower Lanyard scheme was launched in the UK in 2016 to help those with hidden disabilities voluntarily indicate that they may require assistance at work, on transport, in public places, and in shops. It also encourages others to be mindful.

The sunflower lanyard scheme has achieved great success, to the point that it has been implemented across many airlines globally and in the UK, as well as in the NHS and other public services. Many private organisations have implemented the scheme as well. Overall, it has allowed for patrons with hidden disabilities and conditions to easily access support and help from the outset of the journey, trip or experience.

 

How can our libraries support

 

Accessibility and inclusion are very important to us at our Edinburgh Napier campus libraries. We aim to support patrons with disabilities or disabling conditions as much as we can and create a welcoming, inclusive and accessible environment and service for all. In terms of e-resource accessibility, we have a variety of tools and digital features, including:

  • Our Read-Aloud Functionality. This allows patrons to listen to online resources being read aloud to them. They can also adjust the speed, tone and pitch of the voiceover to suit their own individual preferences and needs. The Edge browser feature allows for PDFs to be read aloud as well.
  • The HelperBird Extension. This browser extension allows patrons to choose between a range of text colours, sizes and spacings, as well as the option to add overlays and innovative ruler overlay technology. Colour contrasts can also be edited.
  • Reader View Browser Extension. This helps to enhance intelligibility in different webpages as well as clearing sidebars, adverts and menus – anything which can be deemed to be distracting.

 

You can find more information about our accessibility tools in our Eresource Accessibility Tools My Napier webpage.

 

By Rachel Downie

Photo by Julius Carmine

Black History Month 2025 image of arty peoples heads

Black History Month 2025

01/10/2025 / / 0 Comments

Black History Month 2025: Honouring the Past, Inspiring the Future

Every October, the United Kingdom celebrates Black History Month. It is a time to reflect, to learn, and to honour. Black History Month 2025 arrives with renewed energy. People across the country are ready to spotlight Black contributions, stories, and achievements.

This year’s theme, “Standing Firm in Power and Pride”, shines a light on the resilience, strength, and unwavering commitment to progress that define the Black community across the globe.

The theme focuses on two core values: power and pride.

“Power represents the influence, leadership, and capacity to effect positive change. It acknowledges the visionaries who have led political, civil rights, and social movements, as well as those who have broken barriers in business, education, and the arts. Their legacies remind us that true power is not about titles but about the collective strength, courage, and unity used to forge a more equitable future for all.

Pride reflects cultural identity, heritage, and the celebration of Black excellence. From the art and music to the stories passed through generations, pride is the heartbeat of Black communities worldwide. It’s about knowing where we come from, embracing our history, and walking boldly into the future without compromise or apology. Pride is a declaration of the beauty, the resilience, and the unmatched contributions of Black culture to the world.” Source

Why Black History Month Matters

Black history is British history. Yet for too long, the contributions of Black people were ignored. Schools often left their stories out. Media rarely shared their achievements.

However, Black History Month challenges that silence. It reminds us to look again. It also asks us to broaden our understanding of Britain’s past. Furthermore, it urges us to include everyone’s voices.

Because when we celebrate Black history, we celebrate resilience, creativity, and community. And when young people see themselves reflected in history, they feel empowered to shape the future. As a result, our whole society grows stronger.

A Look Back: Black Pioneers in Britain

Black communities have been part of Britain for centuries. From Roman times to today, their presence has shaped culture and society.

During the 18th and 19th centuries, Black abolitionists like Olaudah Equiano and Mary Prince fought slavery with courage and determination. They wrote books. They spoke to crowds. They demanded justice.

In the 20th century, the Caribbean Windrush Generation helped rebuild post-war Britain. They worked in transport, health care, and industry. Despite facing racism, they laid strong foundations for future generations.

Artists like Claudia Jones created cultural spaces, founding the Notting Hill Carnival. Activists like Darcus Howe fought for civil rights and equality. Their work opened doors that many now walk through.

Scotland also played a part in these stories. For example, Black sailors, writers, and campaigners have lived in Glasgow and Edinburgh for centuries, contributing to the nation’s cultural fabric.

How Communities Across the UK and Scotland Will Celebrate

All across the UK, organisations are planning vibrant celebrations. Museums will host new exhibitions. Art galleries will display works by Black artists. Theatres will stage plays that explore Black heritage.

In Scotland, events will take place in major cities. For example, Glasgow will host the annual Black History Month Lecture Series at local universities. Edinburgh will also see storytelling nights, live music, and poetry slams by Black Scottish artists. Meanwhile, community groups in Aberdeen and Dundee will run family fun days, film screenings, and heritage walks.

Universities will invite guest speakers. Local councils will organise community festivals. Businesses will also run workshops on diversity and inclusion.

Schools will play a central role too. Pupils will learn about Black inventors, activists, and writers — including local Scottish figures. They will also discuss issues like racism and equality. As a result, these lessons will spark important conversations.

Online, social media will amplify Black voices. Campaigns will highlight role models. In addition, hashtags will unite people in celebration. Everyone will have opportunities to engage.

Why Everyone Should Get Involved

Black History Month is not just for Black communities. It belongs to everyone. It invites all of us to learn, reflect, and act.

By joining in, people are showing support. They help break down stereotypes, challenge racism, and build understanding.

And by celebrating Black history, we strengthen the whole of British society. Diversity is our strength. Inclusion fuels progress. Therefore, when we uplift marginalised voices, everyone benefits.

Looking Ahead: Beyond October

While October shines a bright spotlight, Black history should not end there. It must live in our classrooms, workplaces, and media all year.

We can continue reading books by Black authors. We can also support Black-owned businesses. We can include Black stories in school curriculums. Furthermore, we can speak up when we see injustice.

Change takes time, but every action counts. Black History Month offers inspiration. It gives us role models. It pushes us to do better. And it reminds us that progress is possible when we work together.

The Library and Black History Month

The library is committed to ensuring that we support people of colour, not just in October but throughout the year. We are working hard to decolonise our collections to ensure we represent all voices. If you would like to learn more, why not check out our LibGuides on building inclusive reading lists. You can also check out the Blog’s own Inclusive bookshelves for reading ideas.

Final Thoughts

Black History Month 2025 in the UK will be a powerful celebration. It will honour people of colour from the past and present. It will also educate, inspire, and unite communities.

In Scotland, it will shine a light on local Black voices and achievements. From classrooms to concert halls, stories will be shared and celebrated.

So, let’s take part. Let’s attend events, read new stories, and share what we learn. Let’s also listen and uplift.

Because when we celebrate Black history, we build a better future — one rooted in equality, understanding, and hope.

By Juliet Kinsey

Read more about amazing women in Scotland in our post on Womens History Month

Secondhand september lamp

Second Hand September

13/09/2025 / / 0 Comments

Second Hand September

Whether you have just started at university or you are returning, being away from home means fending for yourself and budgeting, which is a great reason to embrace Second Hand September (SHS). Buying food and paying bills will be the priority, along with perhaps a bus pass to get you to your campus. By cutting out online and high street clothes shopping for the month, you will not only be saving money but reducing waste and environmental impacts. Started in 2019 by Oxfam, SHS attempts to promote sustainable fashion, reduce the environmental impact of clothing production and aims to change consumer behaviour to support second-hand markets as a key part of the solution to the fashion industry’s waste problem. It also supports circular fashion encouraging re-purposing and repairing clothes to extend their life and reduce waste, which in turn will reduce the environmental impact of the industry. To be involved, all you need to do is avoid buying brand new clothes during September, and if you do need to make a purchase, buy second hand instead.

How to get involved:

Shop second-hand: Visit charity shops and online marketplaces. Many charities now have online shops.

Repair and re-use: Learn how to repair damaged clothing rather than throwing items out.

Donate: If you have any unwanted items donate them to a charity shop.

Clothing swap: Organise or attend a clothing swap.

Raise awareness: Share tips and purchases on social media.

 

Although SHS is aimed at cutting waste and improving sustainability in the fashion industry, the principles can be applied to all items we purchase.

More ways to have an impact on sustainability and reduce environmental impacts:

Charity shops don’t just sell clothes. If you need items for your student accommodation, you may be able to find them in a charity shop. Merchiston campus is conveniently situated for several charity shops in Morningside, but there are many shops all over the city. As well as clothes you will be able to find crockery (mis-matched is very on trend), glassware, books to read and board games to play in your spare time and small furniture items all at reasonable prices.

Sites such as Gumtree offer all sorts of free items which may be just what you are looking for or are suitable for upcycling.

 

Learn how to:

Edinburgh Libraries have many books on sewing and upcycling which you can borrow to learn how to do repairs and repurpose items. Membership is free and borrowing books is both sustainable and environmentally friendly.

Repair Cafe Edinburgh offers advice and help from volunteers. Booking a slot is recommended and can be done through repaircafeedinburgh@gmail.com

Edinburgh Tool Library has thousands of tools which can be borrowed to carry out your upcycling and repairs.

You Tube has lots of videos on how to mend clothes and upcycle household items.

 

Other benefits of taking part:

You will learn new skills.

You may get to know like-minded people and make new friends.

Initiatives are mostly staffed by volunteers. Shopping in a charity shop or attending a repair class might make you try volunteering yourself and will make a valuable addition to your CV.

Making purchases in charity shops also benefits their fundraising efforts.

 

Edinburgh Napier Campus Libraries

Borrowing books from our libraries is of course sustainable and cuts environmental impacts. Throughout the summer we have been withdrawing stock which is no longer relevant or contains out of date information. Our withdrawn stock is packed up and sent to Better World Books who divert books from landfill and sell them on second hand at affordable prices or donate them to non-profit organisations. As part of their commitment to environmental sustainability they never throw away a book. They recycle any book for which they cannot find a proper home – that is why they have gained B corp certification which is awarded to companies which achieve high standards of social and environmental performance.

You may also find using ebooks convenient. These can be found using our catalogue Library Search and as they are in electronic format they have little environmental impact. Most of the articles we have access to are available electronically too, so using these resources reduces waste from our libraries.

Give Second Hand September a try and you may find you get the second hand bug!

 

By Vivienne Hamilton

 

Photo by Sabiha Kutucu Kaya

 

 

Get cosy with some Autumn posts

 

World Health Day image of earth shaped like a heart with a stethascope

World Health Day

07/04/2025 / / 0 Comments

World Health Day

About World Health Day

World Health Day is a global awareness campaign that is celebrated annually on the 7th of April. The primary focus is to draw attention to a range of pressing and detrimental health problems and issues that affect individuals from all across the globe. It also actively promotes and calls for individuals and communities worldwide to devote a significant degree of focus toward public health and health-related challenges, and for institutions and governments to tackle these as a priority. Every year, a specific health issue of concern or illness will be a primary focal point that World Health Day will address and aim to raise awareness of. The specific theme and focus of each year can be, for example, a highly transmittable disease, barriers to sufficient healthcare access, environmental health and mental health challenges in today’s world.

This year’s theme and focus…

This year’s campaign for World Health Day is titled ‘Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures’ and solely focuses on pushing governments and healthcare institutions to try to put a stop to preventable newborn and maternal fatalities, as well as prioritising and devoting a significant focus toward the reproductive health, long term general health and wellbeing of women overall. For women and families across the world, the importance of adequate and high-quality care being in a place that caters for their physical and emotional health during the early and late stages of pregnancy as well as the post-partum stage cannot be emphasised enough. Current published estimates by the World Health Organisation suggest that approximately 300,000 women lose their lives due to pregnancy-related complications or during childbirth every year. It is also reported that close to two million babies die during the first month of their lives each year with two million more being a stillbirth.

 

With these terrifying and stark statistics in mind, the World Health Organisation intends to put out a variety of helpful information to promote healthy pregnancies and reproductivity, as well as better postnatal health and healthcare as well. Our Napier libraries also have a range of resources available regarding women’s reproductive health and general wellbeing, as well as women’s health during pregnancy and pregnancy-related care before, during and after childbirth.

Our School of Health and Social Care, Nursing and Midwifery

Edinburgh Napier hosts one of the largest schools of Health and Social care in the country and is recognised as one of the biggest providers of nursing and midwifery education as well. It has an excellent reputation which is recognised throughout the UK and beyond, and it’s midwifery course allows it’s student community to gain first-hand clinical experience and practice in midwifery in a range of healthcare settings. They are also taught and supported by lecturers with a high level of expertise in both current research and first-hand clinical practice. This ultimately means that many of our midwifery graduates leave us having acquired a wide range of clinical skills and knowledge which equips them to effectively support, advise and advocate for women and their families throughout each stage of pregnancy and childbirth.

Our Napier libraries also have a wealth of resources and textbooks on Midwifery and healthcare which are primarily located in our Sighthill campus library. The literature available encompasses a range of unique experiences which each individual women can have throughout their pregnancy journey and ultimately helps to support the research and clinical skills development and progression of our midwifery student community with a wealth of high-quality information and sources.

How Our Libraries Can Support Midwifery Students

All of the print and electronic resources that we have can be found and requested through LibrarySearch. As well as a wealth of material on current research regarding midwifery and reproductive healthcare, we also have a variety of resources in our research collection about the art and skill of conducting healthcare and midwifery research including how to write a literature review, for example. We also have subscriptions to a vast number of healthcare databases which include healthcare and allied health journals with the most current and up-to-date research on various health topics, including midwifery and women’s reproductive and general health. MA Healthcare Complete is one of the databases mentioned in our LibGuide which includes some leading titles in midwifery research. Another database where coverage of midwifery research is mentioned is Ovid Emcare, which is ran by Elsevier and covers all areas of nursing specialities and healthcare. Furthermore, the likehood of the other healthcare databases listed in our Libguide having resources with current research on midwifery and women’s reproductive and general health is pretty high as well!

 Some Recommendations from the Library

As well as our ever-popular Mayes Midwifery textbooks and PROMPT Practical Obstetric Multi-Professional Training Course manual (3rd edition), we have a wide variety of other resources covering midwifery research as well as women’s reproductive and general health and wellbeing. These recommendations can be found below.

By Rachel Downie

Emerald Information and Knowledge Management Collection

CyberScotland Week 2025

24/02/2025 / / 0 Comments

CyberScotland Week 2025

It’s CyberScotland week 2025.

Cyber Scotland Week 24th February – 2nd March 2025: “Keeping everyone cyber aware and resilient”.

Today is the start of CyberScotland Week, a week-long event to build “Cyber resilience throughout Scotland.” Hosted by CyberScotland, it is an invitation to “individuals, organisations and communities across Scotland to raise awareness of cyber security and strengthen our collective cyber resilience.” Cyber threats can affect anyone at any time, and as we become more digital, awareness is essential.

The theme of this year; Can’t Hack it!?

Events all across Scotland are listed on the CyberScotland homepage. The website also offers advice and career and skill opportunities.

Edinburgh Napier Security Society

Edinburgh Napier Security Society or ENUSEC is a student society started by students and staff in work with the cybersecurity courses at Edinburgh Napier in 2015. The objective was to foster a community while learning. The society now hosts 120 members. The society is open to everyone not just the Edinburgh Napier association. There are weekly meetings every Wednesday. As well as more fun and informative events monthly. If you are interested in cybersecurity, then this is the society to join.

ENUSEC is hosting their annual cybersecurity conference Le Tour Du Hack in May. This will mark the 10-year anniversary of ENUSEC. Tickets will be available soon but will mark your calendar for the 10th -11th of May. As it marks 10 years, the conference will be bigger than before.  “Le Tour Du Hack is an annual student-run cybersecurity conference bringing together experts, enthusiasts, and curious minds for two days of technical talks, challenges, and of course, networking” (ltdh.enusec.org/#speakers)

Speakers will be announced soon but there is a call for papers. Papers can cover cybersecurity, hacking techniques, hardware hacking and more. It is your chance to present. The deadline for submission is April 20th. More information on their website and tickets to register.

CyberSecurity at Edinburgh Napier

Thinking about learning more about Cybersecurity, Edinburgh Napier University ranks as one of the best in Scotland to study. “At the School of Computing, Engineering & the Built Environment, we’re building the future, creating an impact and making a difference”. Home to the Centre for Cybersecurity, IoT and Cyber-physical systems as well as cybersecurity courses.

Our Centre for Cybersecurity, IoT and Cyber-physical Systems (CIC) are the main research group linked to Cybersecurity at the School of Computing, Engineering & Built Environment. Research is related to Cybersecurity, digital forensics, robotics and much more. This applies to the application areas including but not limited to transportation, health care, Fintech, and 5G/6G wireless communications. This is led by leading professor Bill Buchanan (OBE) and six international research leads. The centre focuses on research excellence with leading academics that are rated in the top 2%. The centre runs a range of courses and is a perfect place for networking and projects (Centre for Cybersecurity, IoT and Cyber-physical systems.napier.ac.uk)

If you are interested in learning more about Cybersecurity, the School of Computing, Engineering and Built Environment is leading in the field. The No.1 UK modern university for computer science to The Times University Guide. We have a Cybersecurity & Forensics, Beng (Hons) and a Postgraduate Cybersecurity MSc which is also available for distance learning. Both programs are available as a graduate apprenticeship. Our undergraduate was the first undergraduate in the UK who be “awarded certification from the National Cyber Security Centre”.

If you are interested, our applications for September 2025 are now open.

Have a look at our access to information day.

By Maya Green

LGBTq+ History month

LGBTQ+ History Month

04/02/2025 / / 0 Comments

LGBTQ+ History Month

February is the month we celebrate LGBT+ History here in the UK. It is a month-long celebration of lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, and non-binary history, including the history of LGBT+ rights and related civil rights movements. In the United Kingdom, we celebrate it in February to coincide with the 2003 abolition of Section 28.

Events and celebrations are organised by the LGBTQ+  History Month organisation which was founded in 2004. The first LGBTQ+ History month was in February 2005 by was run by Sue Sanders and Paul Patrick. The organisation has three taglines ‘claiming our past, celebrating our present, creating our future’. The main aims are ‘increasing visibility, raising awareness and advancing education’. Whilst ‘working towards creating safe spaces and promoting welfare’. You can find all events that are taking place this month on the LGBTQ+ Plus History Month website here.

Celebrate LGBTQ+ History Month at Napier

Resources at the Library

Here at the Library, we think supporting and promoting equality and diversity is incredibly important. Furthermore, we are working hard to create more inclusive collections and to support our LGBT+ users and staff. For example, we have a  LGBT+ virtual bookshelf here on our blog.  We have our  Libguide on sexuality and relationships, please remember if you have suggestions for books we can add to our stock, you can email library@napier.ac.uk

And we want to add that we strive for the library to be a safe and inclusive space for all. If you have any feedback on our spaces, please email library@napier.ac.uk

Resources at University

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. Staff can join the University’s thriving LGBT+ Network or you can visit our web pages to learn more about becoming an ally.

Celebrating the life of Alan Turing

 

Books on for stress awareness month

Stress Awareness Month 2024: Distress and how to De-Stress

17/04/2024 / / 0 Comments

Stress Awareness Month 2024: Distress and How to De-stress

It is Stress Awareness Month, learn about distress and how to destress. First emerged in April 1992 in response to a heightening crisis where chronic and severe stress was spreading on a societal scale. Established to encourage open conversations and discussions about how stress can affect us individually. As well as a collective society as well as helping to reduce the stigma surrounding stress.

Stress and its Causes: Internal and External Factors…

As exam and deadline season commences, stress levels will be at an all-time high amongst our student and staff community. Coursework, exams, and looming deadlines may be the main source of stress for much of our student community. However, for some, there may be other external stressors and factors such as family, relationships, work, and financial problems. Some relevant examples could also include ongoing conflict, job loss, unemployment, and much more.

Stress can also be caused by internal factors such as feelings of uncertainty, failure, and low self-esteem. Or dealing with chronic health issues and illness. Internal and external stressors often go hand in hand. And sometimes, the nature of the stressor may be even more unique or complex as well.

An acute level of stress can serve both a useful and essential evolutionary purpose in some circumstances. Experiencing high levels of stress for a long period can have a negative and sometimes even severe impact on an individual’s physical, emotional, and psychological health and well-being.

Recognising Symptoms and Signs of Stress…

Physically, stress can significantly deplete your immunity levels if you experience profound levels of it over a long-term period. This can make you more vulnerable to catching frequent colds, flu, and viruses. Also making you more susceptible to skin complaints, indigestion, high blood pressure and heart problems. Emotionally, stress can also leave you feeling more irritable, anxious, frustrated, and cynical. Cognitive issues such as indecision, forgetfulness and inattention can also arise. Individuals experiencing profound and severe levels of stress may also develop unhealthy behavioural habits such as sleeping too much or too little, becoming isolated and withdrawn, procrastination and an increased intake of alcohol, cigarettes, and caffeine. These often emerge as coping mechanisms for individuals looking to curb or distract themselves from the stress they are experiencing, but these habits often only end up exacerbating and worsening their stress and circumstances.

The #LittleByLittle Campaign…

The Stress Management Society reported this year that 79% of adults experience stress at least once within a month and that annually 74% have felt unable to cope with the stress they are experiencing or extremely overwhelmed. This year, they have launched the #LittleByLittle campaign which promotes the significance of making small and feasible changes within our daily routines and lives to effectively reduce the negative effects of stress. Stress often primarily emerges from feelings of powerlessness over one’s circumstances. Developing healthy and effective, manageable habits and making small positive changes may not completely erase the stress an individual is experiencing, but it can help them to feel more in control and develop a stronger sense of resilience and optimism in difficult times.

Some of the small habits the Stress Management Society recommend adapting to combat stress as part of their #LittleByLittle campaign are…

  • Connecting with others.
  • Making sleep a priority.
  • Movement and exercise.
  • Spending time outdoors and in nature.
  • Breathing techniques.
  • Practicing mindfulness.

It may not always seem feasible to incorporate these small actions into your daily routine, especially if your schedule is particularly hectic. Around exam and deadline season, this is likely the case as well! Nevertheless, it is worthwhile thinking about where you could slot in at least a few of these small but effective habits. For example, if it is a particularly sunny day, you could take a walk to your university campus or place of work instead of driving or using public transport. This effectively helps to incorporate some exercise and movement into your day as well. If this is not a feasible or realistic option, however, why not take the time to study out in the fresh air and sunshine when the opportunity arises, or even take your lunch break outside?

Destress at the library

The importance of eating for wellbeing, staying connected with others and taking regular breaks also cannot be over-emphasised as well. All three of our campus libraries have a wide range of facilities and resources available to aid with stress and well-being and support students in developing these effective habits, particularly during exam season. We currently have physical Exam Support Displays set up in each campus library with books displayed from both our research collection and wellbeing collection, as well as links and QR codes directing individuals to our useful webpages for study skills, exam support and our Libguide page. Each display also has bowls of free fruit available – do come along and help yourself!

You can also find more of the resources we have available in our wellbeing collection on our Libguide webpage through the following link: Wellbeing Collection – LibGuides at Edinburgh Napier University.

Alongside our wellbeing book stands, we also have relaxation spaces with couches, board games and pages for colouring. An opportunity to take some time away from their revision to relax and recharge.

Some of the books we have available to take out on loan or as an ebook from our Wellbeing Collection which promote and aid with developing effective habits to combat stress can be found below.

By Rachel Downie

Read about our article on beating exam stress.

Join us for our Spring Challenge! Complete for you chance to win a chocolate egg

Easter Egg Hunt 2024

18/03/2024 / / 0 Comments

Easter Egg Hunt 2024

It’s that time of year again: Easter Egg Hunt 2024 edition.

Hooray the Easter Bunny has arrived at our libraries. Our annual Easter Egg Hunt is back and better than ever! Time to win some chocolate goodies. Hurry while stocks last!

What is the Egg Hunt?

If you aren’t familiar, we run this every year to the run of exams and Easter break. As a fun way to familiarise with Library Search and using the Library Catalogue machines.

It’s a chance to win chocolate goodies. Vegan options will be available. Each campus library will be hosting the egg hunt and it will be running all week starting today. So come along and join. Navigate LibrarySearch for specific book titles to find tokens and you can win a chocolate egg. Learn about LibrarySearch and win a prize, it’s a win-win. Instructions are listed below but you can also ask for more assistance at our help desks.

Easter Egg Hunt Instructions:

  1. Use the library catalogue/library search to find the details of all books listed. You will receive this at the help desk.
  2. Find the books on the shelf using the shelf marks.
  3. On the front page, you’ll find either Flowers, Small Creatures (like a rabbit) or Eggs
  4. Take one of each, there will be three in total.
  5. Take all three tokens to the help desk to receive a chocolate egg.

 

We are delighted to say that there will be a bonus challenge this year. Ask the help desk for more details because you will be in the chance to win a grander, chocolatier prize.

We wish you luck.

LibrarySearch 

You can read more about how to find books with our previous blog post.

Image of plastic bottles for blog post July is Plastic Free Month

July is Plastic Free Month

24/07/2023 / / 0 Comments

July is Plastic Free Month

Plastics what’s the big deal?

50% of plastics in the world are made up of lightweight single-use products and packaging materials. The disposal process of these synthetic non-biodegradable plastics has become a problem for the environment, animals, and people.

In 2018 it was estimated between 4.8 million and 12.7 million metric tons of plastics were discarded into the ocean annually, by countries with ocean coastlines.

The Ocean

Once in the ocean, sunlight and seawater react with the plastics. This causes it to become brittle, breaking down and turning into microplastics. These harmful by-products are then ingested by various types of wildlife, such as zooplankton, invertebrates, fish, turtles, birds, and mammals. In addition, ocean currents above and below the sea spread the debris over a wider area, and carry the waste back to the shore, where it affects land wildlife.

Cleaning the oceans is a mammoth task and would cost billions, and as such is not a viable solution. The alternative option was to reduce the use of plastics, which would reduce the amount of waste needing disposal, and so the idea of Plastic Free Month was created.

Plastic Free Month

Join the movement and become part of the solution to help reduce plastic pollution. By replacing single use plastics, you use, one step at a time. Together we can have a massive impact on the overall output of single use non-recyclable plastics. The idea has already been embraced by a million plus participants in 190 countries since Plastic Free Month’s began in 2011. By 2021 those taking part had reduced waste by 2.1 million tonnes.

The Plastic Free Foundation

Setup by Rebecca Prince-Ruiz (the founder of the Plastic Free Foundation) and a small team in local government in Western Australia, it has grown to become one of the most influential environmental campaigns in the world. Six years after its initial set up in 2011, Plastic Free July, led to the formation of the Plastic Free Foundation Ltd, an independent, not-for-profit charity that would support participants and grow the campaign. Plastic Free July has become a key initiative that allows the organisation to work towards a world free of plastic waste.

Their core mission values are:

  • Honesty and integrity
  • Inclusivity of people, ideas, visions, and approaches.
  • A focus on providing solutions.
  • Authenticity and collaboration.
  • The belief that small changes add up to a big difference.

To find out more about Plastic Free Month and some great ideas on how you can play your part in helping and improving the environment, head over to Plastic Free July – Be Part of the Plastic Pollution Solution.

Working to make a difference.

Click on the following link to see how a lab technician and technical assistant at Edinburgh Napier University pioneered a new recycling initiative that has to date (December 2022) re-routed 3,000kg of plastic from general waste to dry mixed recycling.  Lab Plastic Recycling Project (napier.ac.uk)

Or read the blog at: Solving single-use plastic waste with a dynamic duo – The School of Applied Sciences (napier.ac.uk)

By Mo Almas

Read more about the Environment and the world in our article on re-introducing animals to Scotland.

Photo by tanvi sharma on Unsplash

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