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World book day

Celebrating the Anniversary of Decimalisation

15/02/2025 / / 0 Comments

Celebrating the Anniversary of Decimalisation

As a student it’s important to manage your money and make sure that your fees and bills are paid promptly, whilst also leaving yourself enough to buy food and, of course, do some socialising. You may rarely carry cash as card payments dominate for most purchases, but some people and businesses still prefer to use cash. In the UK at the beginning of the 1970’s using cash was the norm, but changes were about to be made to the existing currency. 15th February is the anniversary of the date the UK changed its currency, sterling, from the old pounds, shillings and pence to decimal currency (units related by powers of 10). Before this, the currency used was not as straightforward and consisted of a baffling array of coins. Using the decimal system made calculations much easier as you will see…

Background

Pre-decimalisation coinage was introduced by King Henry II of England and was based on the troy system of weighing precious metals. A penny was one pennyweight of silver. A pound sterling weighed 240 pennyweights or a pound of sterling silver. Pounds were divided into twenty shillings, shillings into twelve pennies, pennies into two halfpennies and four farthings.

All these amounts of money had corresponding coins and to make matters more complicated there were even more – 2 sixpences made a shilling, 5 shillings made a crown and there were half crowns, florins and groats. By 1971 many of these coins had been phased out.

Attempts to change

Proposals to decimalise sterling were first made in Parliament in 1824 and there were many more attempts to legislate for conversion throughout the 19th and 20th centuries. The successful transition to decimal currency in South Africa led the UK government to set up the Committee of the Inquiry on Decimal Currency, known as the Halsbury Committee. In 1963 the Halsbury Committee published its findings. Lord Halsbury concluded that due to the pound’s importance as a global reserve currency it should remain the main unit of currency. A series of new decimal coins would be created, and all existing coins would either be replaced or phased out.

Change happens

It was in 1966 that decimalisation was finally debated and then legislated on in May 1969 with the approval of the Decimal Currency Act. On 15th February 1971 the switch over took place. February had been chosen because it was assessed to be the quietest time of the year for banks, shops and transport organisations. Banks were closed for 4 days before the changeover.

Public reaction to the prospect of a new currency was mixed. Many thought they would find it confusing. Others thought that shopkeepers would use the introduction as a way to put prices up. Shops often displayed prices in both currencies. Currency converters were available for the public, but most people didn’t have any difficulties. For a short time, the old and new currencies operated in unison – people could pay in pounds, shillings and pence and receive new decimal money as change. It was originally planned that old money would be phased out of circulation over a period of eighteen months, but as it turned out, the old penny, halfpenny and threepenny coins were officially taken out of circulation as early as August 1971.

Today

Although we still have decimal currency, card payments make up the majority of transactions, but some people still prefer to use cash. They feel it makes budgeting easier as they only spend the cash they have taken out from a bank or ATM. Whichever method of payment you prefer you will no doubt agree that the decimal currency is much easier to calculate.

You can use Library Search find books and articles on finance, banking and student finance.

In My Napier webpages there are articles providing information, guidance and support to a wide range of finance-specific information.

If you would like free advice on help with financial issues you can contact Citizens Advice who may be able to assist. Remember to take along any documents relevant to your query.

Read more on the library blog. Check out our article on: The Dewey Decimal Classification System

By Vivienne Hamilton

Picture of scrabble squares saying love for blog post A History of Valentine's Day

A History of Valentine’s Day

14/02/2025 / / 0 Comments

A History of Valentine’s Day

‍Love, Legends, and Lupercalia: A Fascinating Journey through the History of Valentine’s Day ‍

Valentine’s Day, a day filled with love, romance, and heartfelt gestures. But have you ever wondered about the origins and true history of this beloved holiday?

Origins of Valentine’s Day: Lupercalia and Ancient Roman Traditions

To understand Valentine’s Day, we must look back to ancient Rome and the festival of Lupercalia. Held on the ides of February, this lively event honored Faunus, the Roman god of agriculture. It featured feasting, dancing, and a unique matchmaking ritual. Young men would draw women’s names from a jar, forming pairs for the festival. These matches often sparked lasting relationships and even marriages.

So, how does St. Valentine fit in? The connection likely began when the early Christian church sought to replace pagan traditions. In 496 AD, Pope Gelasius I declared February 14th as St. Valentine’s Day, commemorating a priest who defied Emperor Claudius II’s ban on marriage by secretly performing weddings. Over time, St. Valentine’s story merged with the celebration of love, giving the holiday its romantic roots.

The Legend of St. Valentine: The Story Behind the Holiday

The true history of St. Valentine is clouded by mystery, with multiple legends surrounding his life. One popular tale describes him as a kind man who, while imprisoned, healed the blind daughter of his jailer. Before his execution, he wrote her a letter signed “Your Valentine,” inspiring the tradition of love notes.

Interestingly, St. Valentine is also the patron saint of epilepsy. Although the details of his life remain unclear, his legend has deeply influenced the Valentine’s Day we celebrate today. Read more on this through Librarysearch.

However, it is important to note that the true history of St. Valentine is still a subject of debate among historians, and the details of his life may forever remain elusive. Nevertheless, the legend of St. Valentine has played a significant role in shaping the holiday we know and cherish today.

Valentine’s Day Cards

Valentine’s cards, or “valentines,” have been a key part of the holiday since the 15th century. In Europe, people exchanged handwritten love notes adorned with lace, ribbons, and even locks of hair. These intricate cards symbolized love and admiration.

The printing press made valentines more accessible. By the 19th century, mass-produced cards with elaborate designs and sentimental verses became popular. These cards helped spread the romantic spirit of Valentine’s Day to people from all walks of life.

The Commercialization of Valentine’s Day

In the 20th century, Valentine’s Day shifted from a simple celebration to a commercial phenomenon. With advancements in technology and a growing consumer culture, retailers saw an opportunity. Soon, chocolates, flowers, jewelry, and extravagant gifts dominated the holiday.

Movies, songs, and advertisements amplified the idea of grand romantic gestures. Today, Valentine’s Day is a multi-billion dollar industry, celebrated with everything from romantic dinners to heartfelt gift exchanges.

Valentine’s Day Traditions Around the World

Although Valentine’s Day is celebrated worldwide, traditions vary by culture. In Japan, women give chocolates to men on February 14th, with men reciprocating a month later on “White Day.” In Finland, the holiday focuses on friendship, known as “Friendship Day.”

South Korea extends the celebration further. February 14th is for women to give chocolates, March 14th (White Day) is for men to return gifts, and April 14th (Black Day) is for singles to gather and celebrate. These customs show that love, in all forms, transcends cultural boundaries.

Share the Love

Valentine’s Day isn’t just for couples. It’s a chance to celebrate anyone special—family, friends, or even yourself. Whether you embrace its commercial aspects or prefer a more personal touch, the day reminds us to show love and appreciation to those who matter most.

For me, celebrating Galentine’s Day with my friends is always a highlight! How will you celebrate this year?

Resources

Want to deep dive into all things romance? Why not check out an entire Journal dedicated to the subject: The Journal of Romance Studies. Alternatively, get comfy on the sofa with a wealth of romantic movies all freely available through Box of Broadcasts.

By Juliet Kinsey

Read about how wonderful your Library is here on the blog with our posts on “love your Library”

Image Source: Image by Ylanite Koppens from Pixabay

Scottish Women in Science image of woman scientist

Scottish Women in Science

11/02/2025 / / 0 Comments

Scottish Women in Science  

To celebrate International Women and Girls in Science Day, let’s celebrate some amazing Scottish female Scientists.

Scotland has a rich history of scientific achievements and Scottish women have played a pivotal role in shaping these accomplishments. From groundbreaking discoveries to innovative research, these remarkable women have defied societal norms and overcome countless obstacles to leave an indelible mark on the field of science.

Historical Scottish Women Pioneers in Science

Even in times when opportunities for women were severely limited, Scottish women managed to push the boundaries and excel in various scientific disciplines. One such pioneer was Mary Somerville, who became a renowned mathematician and astronomer in the 19th century. Her work in celestial mechanics and her influential book “The Mechanism of the Heavens” significantly contributed to our understanding of the universe.

Another trailblazer was Elizabeth Blackwell, who became the first woman to graduate from medical school in the United States in 1849. Born in Aberdeen, Scotland, Blackwell faced immense challenges and discrimination in her pursuit of a medical career. Her determination and resilience not only opened doors for women in medicine but also paved the way for future generations of female physicians.

In the field of medicine, Dr. Elsie Inglis revolutionized healthcare by establishing the Scottish Women’s Hospitals during World War I. Her tireless efforts saved countless lives and challenged the prevailing gender norms of the time.

Modern Scottish Women Making Strides in the Scientific World

Professor Linda Bauld is a public health expert, Bauld has been instrumental in shaping Scotland’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Her research on public health behaviour and interventions has had a significant impact on policy both in Scotland and internationally.

In the realm of environmental science, Professor Sheila Rowan has made groundbreaking discoveries in gravitational wave detection. Her research has opened up new possibilities for studying the universe, earning her international acclaim and recognition.

The primatologist and neuroethologist Professor Dame Anne Glover is a world-leading expert on animal behaviour and cognition. She has served as Chief Scientific Adviser to the UK Government and has received many honours and awards.

Scientists of Edinburgh Napier University

Edinburgh Napier University is home to many talented women scientists who are making significant contributions in various fields.

  • Prof Yvonne Kuipers, Professor of Midwifery, has over 20 years of experience in women’s reproductive health. She has conducted research on a variety of topics, including home birth, traumatic childbirth experiences, and midwifery-led care.
  • Dr. Fiona Lees, Professor of Occupational Therapy, is an expert in disability studies. She has conducted research on a variety of topics, including wheelchair use, falls prevention, and social care.
  • Prof Emma Hart is a professor of computational intelligence here at Edinburgh Napier. She is known for her work in artificial immune systems (AIS), evolutionary computation and optimisation.
  • Dr. Clare Taylor is a Senior Lecturer in Medical Microbiology and is a passionate advocate of equality and inclusion

These are just a few examples of the many accomplished women scientists working at Edinburgh Napier University. Their research is making a real difference in the world, and they are inspiring the next generation of female scientists. In addition to these individual researchers, Edinburgh Napier University is committed to supporting women in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) more broadly.

The university has several initiatives in place to encourage girls and young women to pursue careers in science. Such as the EQUATE Scotland program, which provides mentoring and support to women in the built environment, engineering, technology, and science sectors.

Celebrating the Achievements of Scottish Women in Science

Scottish women have played a vital role in shaping the scientific world. Defying societal expectations and making groundbreaking discoveries. From the pioneers of the past to the trailblazers of today, their contributions have paved the way for future generations of scientists. It is crucial to celebrate and recognize their achievements, while also working towards creating a more inclusive and equitable scientific community. By supporting and empowering Scottish women in science, we can ensure that their remarkable legacy continues to inspire and drive scientific progress for years to come.

Join us in celebrating the achievements of Scottish women in science by sharing their stories and advocating for gender equality in STEM fields. Together, we can break down barriers and create a more inclusive scientific community.

By Juliet Kinsey

Read more on Women in Science here.

 

Music at Edinburgh Napier

Music and Edinburgh Napier

09/02/2025 / / 0 Comments

Music and Edinburgh Napier

Napier University has a rich musical heritage. The university has also helped to nurture a wide array of major Scottish talent.

The Music department is noted for its range of approaches to the study of Music. Professor Zach Moir a jazz musician and improvisor, researched cochlear implants for his PhD. He researches popular music education. Dr Paul Harkins has experience working for the PRS (responsible for licensing and collecting royalties for songwriters). And has written an acclaimed study of the history of Digital Sampling.  On top of this, the university also has a strong Jazz tradition.  Holds the Scottish Jazz Archive in its collections.

Music Alum at Edinburgh Napier

As with its teachers, so it is with its students. Some have also branched out into music promotion. Putting on their own concerts. And making an impact in the Scottish music scene. Here is a small selection of Napier alumni. Annie Booth is a Scottish indie rock singer-songwriter and Scottish Album of the Year (SAY) awards nominee. Making waves in the early aughts, Conquering Animal Sound (Jamie Scott and Anneke Kampman) produced complex electronic pop. She earned a SAY awards nomination for their second album On Floating Bodies, released on the legendary Scottish indie label Chemikal Underground. ½ of CAS, Jamie Scott has branched into alternative rap (e.g CARBS, with Johnnie Common), and is a core part of the SAVE AS collective. Another SAY award nominee and Napier graduate is Becky Sikasa, a singer-songwriter who produces sharp, intelligent contemporary pop music. More recently, Napier alumnus Josh Mannie – under his moniker Barry Can’t Swim – has been nominated for both the BRIT awards and Mercury Music Prize in 2024. His ebullient dance pop has earned plaudits far and wide.

Euan Lyons, drums in the DIY punk/metal band Dead Pony, whilst another Napier graduate – cellist Graham Coe – is a core member of Edinburgh’s Tinderbox

Orchestra, known for their wide range of performed material across generic boundaries (and also within libraries). They also regularly work in a community music context, committed to increasing access to music regardless of material barriers – one of their initiatives is facilitating instrument lending in our local library system.

Last, but certainly not least, is Anna Meredith. An electronic music artist as well as film music composer, Anna was nominated for the Mercury Music Prize in 2020 for her album Fibs. In recognition of her achievements in music, she was granted an honorary doctorate from Napier in 2022.

Napier Graduate Mix

By Kieran Curran

Grove Music is one of our biggest databases at the library, for more information, we have a blog post

Statue of Charles Dickens

Charles Dickens’ Birthday

07/02/2025 / / 0 Comments

Charles Dickens’ Birthday

Happy birthday, Charles John Huffam Dickens – born this day 212 years ago and still going strong!

Not many authors get their names turned into adjectives, but our Charles did. If I were to describe circumstances as “Dickensian”, you’d know exactly what I mean. It’s thanks to this forensic analysis of the seedier aspects of London life that he’s generally considered to be the greatest Victorian novelist.

Childhood

He didn’t have the best start in life, young Charles. His father had a decent job but was so financially reckless that he ended up in debtors’ prison, and his 12-year-old son was withdrawn from school and sent to work in a factory. It was all grist to the mill, though, for Dickens. This harsh start provided a rich source of material for him to draw on when he wrote his sprawling, serialized novels and created his many memorable characters – so much larger than life that they live on in our cultural imaginations more than two centuries on.

Characters

Who has not known an Ebenezer Scrooge? (I’ve known a few). How many of us have skelped an artful dodger around the lugs? (I’m not admitting to that one.) Who has not cheered on Philip (Pip) Pirrip as he rises up to become a gentleman and then remonstrated with him when he treats brother-in-law Joe so abominably? Who has not cried with Bob Cratchit as he strives to keep his young son alive?

You’ll have your favourite characters. Some are sweet and innocent, some are cruel and heartless; still, others are preposterous buffoons. My favourite is Betsey Trotwood, David Copperfield’s eccentric aunt. She’s stern and stubborn, to begin with but comes good in the end. If you’re looking for character transformation, look no further than BT.

Charles Dickens on LibrarySearch

We’ve got all Dickens’ books. If you haven’t read any, why not start today.  Log into the library catalogue LibrarySearch to see which are available:

In order of publication:

Pickwick Papers (1836-37)

A Christmas Carol (1843)

Oliver Twist (1837-9)

Nicholas Nickelby (1838-9)

The Old Curiosity Shop (1940-1)

Barnaby Rudge (1841)

Martin Chuzzlewit (1843-4)

Dombey and Son (1846-8)

David Copperfield (1849-50)

Bleak House (1852-3)

Hard Times (1854)

Little Dorritt (1855-7)

A Tale of Two Cities (1859)

Great Expectations (1860-1)

Our Mutual Friend (1864-5)

The Mystery of Edwin Drood (incomplete when Dickens died in 1870)

By Lesley McRobb

Read more on another Literary Master, Jane Austin in our post on her here.

Sources

photo by Taha (Unsplash)

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

 

Image for post check-our-a-z-databases-list-unlock-specialised-resources

Check our A-Z databases list – unlock specialised resources

27/01/2025 / / 0 Comments

Check our A-Z databases list – unlock specialised resources

To prepare for your classes and assessments, having access to specialised resources is crucial. One of the best ways to find these resources is by exploring the library’s A-Z databases list. Here’s why this tool is invaluable and how it can benefit your studies.

 

Why check the A-Z databases list?

The A-Z databases list is a comprehensive directory of databases the library subscribes to, organised alphabetically. These databases cover a wide range of subjects and provide access to specialised academic resources, including journal articles, reports, and more. Accessing databases such as CINAHL, ACM or Lexis+ through our A-Z databases page, you will gain seamless access to these valuable tools.

 

Benefits of using databases:

  1. Access resources relevant to your research. The A-Z databases list includes databases that focus on specific disciplines, such as computing, nursing, business, and more. This means you can find high-quality, peer-reviewed resources that are directly relevant to your field of study.
  2. Enhance research quality. By using specialised databases, you can access a wealth of information that may not be available through general search engines. This can significantly enhance the quality and reliability of your research.
  3. Save time. Instead of sifting through countless irrelevant results, the A-Z databases list allows you to go straight to the sources that matter. This targeted approach saves you time and makes your research process more efficient.

 

How to use the A-Z databases list

You can access the A-Z databases list through the LibrarySearch. You will find the Databases tab at the top of the page. Browse the list alphabetically or use subject filters to find databases relevant to your research. Each database has a description and basic information about the resource which will help you choose the right ones for your needs.

By regularly using the A-Z databases list for your studies, you can unlock a world of specialised resources that will elevate your academic work.

By Patrycja Respondek

Read more about LibrarySearch on the blog with our article  Introduction to librarysearch

 

Study support

Study Support and Resources

26/01/2025 / / 0 Comments

Study Support and Resources

Classes have started, and trimester 2 is already on its way. While assignments may seem a bit far away. The university has many support and resources to help you through the trimester. Before those assignments appear closer, we thought we would list the support and resources available to help you get through the trimester.

Library Support

Our training and events calendar details useful library support sessions from Getting Started with the Library to Subject Librarian appointments. We have Getting Started with the library sessions upcoming; a quick introduction to navigate the library space both physical and online. There is Library help for computing, built environment and engineering students. Your subject librarian will detail the most useful resources to help you with upcoming assignments. And the upcoming, we will have training sessions on referencing and writing bibliographies.

With this, we have libguides that are catered to each subject. These guides are designed by subject librarians with study and research guides and the most useful resources for your studies.

Academic Skills Support

At the University, we have a dedicated Academic Skills team. They can help you with:

  • Note-taking and reading of academic literature
  • Academic writing style
  • Essay & report planning and structure
  • Dissertations & literature reviews
  • Presentation preparation
  • Academic integrity issues

The Academic Skills teams are available for any year of study and any program. 1.1 appointment or drop-in sessions are available. Both appointments and drop-in sessions can be arranged online. Email academicskills@napier.ac.uk to schedule.

Check out their web pages which have their blog containing study advice, and short presentation videos which include how to tackle dissertations. And study sheets to help with exams.

Maths Plus

Starting Monday, Maths Plus is back at Merchiston Library. Running between Monday and Thursday, 2pm till 4pm. This is arranged by the School of Computing, Engineering and Built Environment, you can contact them for more information, scebe@napier.ac.uk.

Maths Plus is for anyone who needs mathematical help from numbers to data analysis. Ideal study help for computing, built environment or engineering but anyone is welcome. And these sessions make sure you can get 1.1 help.

Additionally, there is Engineering Plus but you can contact the school office for more information.

 

English for Academic Purposes

For help for international students with English in Academic settings, please contact eap.enquiries@napier.ac.uk.

What do you wish you had known earlier?

Earlier this year, a team of librarians, learning technologists and academic skills adviser created a new study tool; What do you wish you had known earlier? You can hear from older and former students about what they wished they had known before and during their studies.

 

Wellbeing.

And last but not least, the most important. Remember to take time out for yourself during university and to take care of yourself. If things ever feel too much, you can contact the wellbeing team.

Good luck with your studies!

More study skills articles.

Garden bird

Big Garden Birdwatch 2025

25/01/2025 / / 0 Comments

Big Garden Birdwatch 2025

Once again this year we’re promoting the RSPB Garden Birdwatch in our relaxation spaces. The birdwatch has been running since 1979 and is very simple to participate. All you need to do is count the maximum number of each type of bird you see in an hour. This can done either in your garden, from a balcony or in a park. Your results can be entered online.

This year the birdwatch runs from 24-26 January. It’s a good way to take a break from your studies and you are contributing to a valuable citizen science project. The results are published later in the year and are useful for conservation projects, making it interesting to read about the state of our garden birds. Last year over 600,000 people took part in the survey and if you don’t have access to a garden you can count the birds in a part of your local park or do a count from a window in your home.

Interested in BirdWatch

All the information you need can be found at Big Garden Birdwatch.

You can use Library Search to find books and articles on birds, conservation, and citizen science in our collection.

By Vivienne Hamilton

Photo by Allan Cox

Looking to unwind, don’t forget we have our virtual relaxation space on the blog. 

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