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Edinburgh Napier University Library blog. Filled with useful and fun blog articles on using the Library, the University, Edinburgh and many other fun topics.

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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

Image of hands for article The Power of Left-Handedness: Exploring the Advantages of Being Left-Handed

The Power of Left-Handedness

21/08/2025 / / 2 Comments

The Power of Left-Handedness

Left-handedness, a natural phenomenon that has intrigued scientists and societies for centuries, refers to the preference of using the left hand over the right hand for various activities. Approximately 10% of the global population is left-handed, making it a relatively rare trait. While left-handedness is often seen as a unique and intriguing characteristic, it has also been associated with certain advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we will delve into the advantages of being left-handed, explore its presence in different cultures, examine famous left-handed individuals, discuss its impact on sports, address the challenges and misconceptions surrounding left-handedness, explore the concept of ambidextrousness, and highlight specialized products and tools for left-handed individuals.

The advantages of being left-handed

Being left-handed can provide individuals with various advantages. One significant advantage is enhanced creativity. Studies have shown that left-handed individuals tend to have a more developed right brain hemisphere, which is associated with creativity and artistic abilities. This may explain why a significant number of artists, musicians, and writers are left-handed. Additionally, left-handed individuals often possess increased problem-solving skills and are adept at thinking outside the box, which can be advantageous in many professional fields.

Another advantage of being left-handed is improved spatial reasoning. Left-handed individuals typically have a more developed right parietal cortex, which is responsible for spatial awareness and visualization. This enhanced spatial reasoning can be beneficial in activities such as architecture, engineering, and sports that require precise coordination and understanding of spatial relationships.

Left-handedness has also been linked to better multitasking abilities. Research suggests that left-handed individuals have a higher degree of interhemispheric connectivity, allowing for more efficient communication between the brain’s two hemispheres. This enhanced connectivity enables left-handed individuals to excel in tasks that require simultaneous processing of multiple sources of information, such as driving while talking on the phone or multitasking in a fast-paced work environment.

Left-handedness in different cultures

Throughout history, left-handedness has been viewed differently across various cultures. In some cultures, being left-handed was considered taboo or associated with negative connotations, leading to discrimination and attempts to convert left-handed individuals to right-handedness. However, in other cultures, left-handedness was celebrated and considered a sign of uniqueness and special abilities.

For example, ancient Egyptians believed that left-handedness was a divine characteristic, associating it with the goddess Isis. In certain African cultures, left-handed individuals were believed to possess spiritual powers and were revered as healers or shamans. In contrast, many Western societies historically viewed left-handedness as a sign of evil or witchcraft, leading to societal pressure to convert left-handed individuals to right-handedness.

Fortunately, the perception of left-handedness has evolved over time, with greater acceptance and recognition of its natural occurrence. Today, many cultures celebrate left-handedness and highlight the advantages and unique qualities associated with being left-handed.

Famous left-handed individuals

Left-handedness has been prevalent among numerous famous individuals throughout history. From artists and athletes to politicians and scientists, left-handedness has not hindered the success of these individuals but has often contributed to their achievements. Some notable left-handed actors include Leonardo DiCaprio, Tom Cruise, and Julia Roberts, who have captivated audiences with their exceptional acting skills and charisma.

In the realm of music, left-handed musicians such as Jimi Hendrix, Paul McCartney, and Kurt Cobain have left an indelible mark on the world of music with their innovative styles and groundbreaking compositions. Their left-handedness brought a unique perspective to their craft, contributing to their iconic status in the music industry.

From a scientific standpoint, left-handed individuals such as Albert Einstein and Marie Curie have made significant contributions to their respective fields, showcasing that left-handedness is not a hindrance but rather a characteristic that can coexist with exceptional intelligence and groundbreaking discoveries.

These examples serve as a testament to the fact that left-handedness is not a limitation but rather an asset that can contribute to remarkable achievements in various domains.

Left-handedness in sports

Left-handedness can provide a competitive edge in the world of sports. In many sports, left-handed athletes possess a natural advantage due to their opponents’ relative lack of experience in facing left-handed competitors. This unexpectedness can disrupt the opponent’s usual strategies and provide left-handed athletes with a higher chance of success.

For instance, in tennis, left-handed players often have an advantage over right-handed players due to the difference in spin and angle of the ball when it is struck by a left-handed player’s racket. This can create difficulties for right-handed opponents in adjusting their shots and positioning on the court.

Similarly, in combat sports such as boxing or martial arts, left-handed fighters, known as southpaws, often pose challenges for their right-handed opponents. The reversed stance and different angles of attack can catch right-handed opponents off guard and require additional adaptation and strategy.

Left-handedness can also be advantageous in team sports such as basketball or soccer. Left-handed players can provide a unique playing style and contribute to the team’s tactical diversity. Their left-handedness can create unpredictable situations for the opposing team, as they are accustomed to defending against right-handed players.

Challenges and misconceptions about left-handedness

Despite the advantages associated with being left-handed, there are also challenges and misconceptions that left-handed individuals may encounter. One common misconception is that left-handed individuals are less intelligent or more prone to certain health conditions. However, scientific research has debunked these myths, reaffirming that left-handedness is simply a natural variation in human development with no inherent disadvantages.

One challenge that left-handed individuals may face is the lack of left-handed products and tools in a right-handed dominant world. Many everyday objects, such as scissors, can openers, and desks, are designed for right-handed individuals, which can make certain tasks more challenging or uncomfortable for left-handed individuals. However, with increasing awareness and demand, there has been a growing availability of specialized products and tools designed specifically for left-handed individuals, alleviating these challenges to some extent.

Ambidexterity: The ability to use both hands equally well

While left-handedness is often associated with a preference for using the left hand, some individuals possess the unique ability to use both hands equally well. This phenomenon is known as Ambidextrousness. Ambidextrous individuals are not strictly left-handed or right-handed but have a high degree of ambidexterity.

Ambisinistrousness can be advantageous in various situations. Individuals with this ability can effortlessly switch between hands, allowing them to adapt quickly to different tasks and situations. This flexibility can be particularly beneficial in activities that require fine motor skills or coordinated movements.

Ambidextrous individuals often excel in musical instruments that require both hands, such as a piano or a guitar, as they can seamlessly navigate the keys or strings with either hand. Additionally, ambidexterity can be advantageous in sports that demand bilateral coordination, such as fencing or archery.

Left-handed products and tools

There is a growing market for specialised left-handed products and tools. From left-handed scissors with reversed blades to left-handed keyboards and computer mice, these products are designed to provide comfort and ease of use for left-handed individuals.

Left-handed desks and writing instruments with a slant towards the left are also available, enabling left-handed individuals to write without smudging the ink or experiencing discomfort. Additionally, specialised kitchen utensils, such as left-handed can openers and peelers, have been developed to facilitate food preparation for left-handed individuals.

The availability of these specialised products and tools has significantly improved the overall experience for left-handed individuals, allowing them to navigate a right-handed dominant world with greater comfort and efficiency.

Tips for left-handed individuals

If you are left-handed, here are a few tips to enhance your experience and make daily tasks more manageable:

  1. Embrace your left-handedness: Recognise that being left-handed is a unique and valuable trait that contributes to your individuality. Embrace it with pride and celebrate your differences.
  2. Seek out left-handed products and tools: Invest in specialised left-handed products and tools that cater to your needs. This will make everyday tasks more comfortable and efficient.
  3. Develop ambidexterity: Practice using your non-dominant hand to improve your ambidexterity. This can be done through simple activities such as brushing your teeth or writing short notes.
  4. Be aware of your surroundings: Pay attention to the layout of objects and tools in your environment. Make adjustments, if necessary, to ensure optimal comfort and functionality.
  5. Educate others: Inform friends, family, and coworkers about the challenges that left-handed individuals may face. By raising awareness, you can help create a more inclusive and accommodating environment for all.

Embracing and celebrating left-handedness

Left-handedness is a fascinating characteristic that has both advantages and challenges. It is important to recognise and celebrate the unique qualities that left-handed individuals bring to the world. By understanding the advantages of being left-handed, appreciating its presence in different cultures, acknowledging the accomplishments of famous left-handed individuals, and addressing the challenges and misconceptions surrounding left-handedness, we can create a more inclusive and supportive society for all individuals, regardless of their dominant hand. So, let us embrace and celebrate the power of left-handedness.

Celebrate your left-handedness! Share this article with your friends and family to spread awareness and appreciation for the advantages of being left-handed.

Read more on Scientific studies in Left-Handedness on our Library Catalogue LibrarySearch

By Juliet Kinsey

Image Source: Photo by Sebastian Dumitru on Unsplash

Read more on our Blog from Juliet with articles like Stress Awareness Month

zap the super cat wearing a red collar and staring lovingly at the camera for Pets of the Library

Pets of the Library

07/08/2025 / / 0 Comments

Pets of the Library

With International Cat and Dog Day coming up this month, we decided to celebrate all the pets of the Library. Inclusivity for pets, too, we say! So it is my genuine honour to introduce you to just a wee scattering of the lovely animals we share our lives with.

Smokey

Pets of the Library image of Pets of the Library the hamster“He is a very good boy.” Jane Haigh

First up is Smokey the Syrian hamster. He is nearly 2 years old and the pet of Jane, our Learning and Research Services Manager. Smokey is in tune with his health and well-being, so his favourite snack is broccoli. Take note, kids, healthy eating is for all species. He also loves cuddles, which we all know releases endorphins. I think I may have found my next wellness influencer in Smokey.

Luffy and Maggie

Maggie and Luffy the cats in their cat tree for Pets of the Library Luff the cat sitting on a windowsill looking cute for Pets of the Library Maggie the cat looking adorable for Pets of the Library

Gina is excited to introduce her fluffy babies, Luffy and Maggie. Their hobbies include balcony time and getting treats from the neighbours. It’s good to be sociable. Both kitties are 2 years old. Luffy is a stubborn but loveable little brute who loves to torment their owners by knocking over the water fountain. Water for all, says Luffy! Maggie, on the other hand, is a little Romanian princess who loves a nap in the sun. A lady knows what she likes. She is also in the running for the highest-pitched meow in a teeny kitty. New Olympics category, anyone?

Georgie and Ed

Ed the cat sitting on a box for Pets of the Library Georgie the dog looking wistfully out the window for Pets of the Library

Next up are Kieran’s companions, Georgie (the Collie dog) and Ed (the cat). Ed has been with Kieran for just over 8 years now, and Georgie coming up to 2 years. Like any siblings, they have good days and bad days with each other. Ed is a bit of an older sister and gets sick of Georgie’s excitement at times. Ed is a cool cat and likes the chill, whereas Georgie, being a collie, is desperate to be best friends.  It’s tough having different personalities in a family, but they love each other nonetheless. A shout-out to all the siblings out there who get this!

Kieran put it best, saying:

“Both are amazing animals, but with very different temperaments. He’s very excitable, she isn’t. He’s young, she’s old. He loves his toys, but she prefers boxes. He will eat anything (we have to be careful where we leave our snacks), but she’s incredibly fussy. She puts him in his place – fair enough, she’s a lot smaller than he is, and he is pretty irrepresible at times…But more to the point, they have enriched our lives in so many ways. We’re lucky to have them in our lives and, despite the stresses (looking at you in particular, Georgie!), we love them both deeply.”

Well, I have all the feels <3

Luna

Luna the dog in a wee harness outside for Pets of the Library

Luna is the family dog of Vivienne. She is a rescue Jack Russell/chihuahua cross. She is a shy girl around strangers but adores being with her family. Luna likes eating, sleeping in the sunshine, chasing squirrels and barking. Get those pesky squirrels, Luna, get ’em! Sounds like a lovely life. Luna is one of the few puppies out there who isn’t into walkies and sniffing other dogs. She’s a homegirl, and darn right, it’s the best place to be. All the scratchies for our girl Luna.

Shout out to all the lovely folks out there re-homing pets. Why not support our very own Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home if you can?

Brindle and Zap

Brindle the cat looking over it for Pets of the Library zap the super cat wearing a red collar and staring lovingly at the camera for Pets of the Library

Now to my lovely girls. Brindle and Zap the Super Cat (full name), comic book pending.

Zap is our newest family member, and she is the light of our universe. She’s 2 years old and still everyone’s baby kitty yumyum face. Yes, that’s what we call her, no, I am not ashamed. She is a sleek black kitty cat who likes to hide under blankets and scare the life out of you when you try to go to bed. We call her the Ninja, and as a Halloween kitty, that works well with her vibe. She also enjoys attending most online meetings and standing on the keyboard at inconvenient moments.

To quote Zap, “lCUHSDUJDKFHWO3I092QWpa08923740&*£$^%$” I’m sure you can all agree with that statement. We’ve all been in those meetings…

Brindle is both my fluffy fuzzy baby AND an Elder Queen of Cats at the ripe old age of 17 this year. She is a regal Siberian from the frozen tundra who likes to be left the hell alone by everyone but me. Something I am eternally proud of and am considering putting on my CV. She will not eat any food that she senses may have hidden plans to help her; she knows the vet is out to get her and will not take her medicine. She has zero time for Zap and will regularly bop her on the head if Zap is foolish enough to be walking past. Maybe that’s why Zap has developed such good Ninja skills? Her main hobby is sleeping and looking at me with annoyance if I try to leave a room, as I cannot be left unattended. Trust issues, no doubt stemming from all the medicine I keep trying to hide in her food.

Cooper

Cooper the dog after his fun run for pets of the lirbary

Our last lovely chap is Cooper. Maya’s family dog. Cooper is a Vizsla with Rizz.

Cooper puts us all to shame with his recent sportsdogmanship, winning the top Dog category in a 6-mile fun run…go Cooper! Admittedly, he was the only dog competing, but a win is a win, Coop!

Cooper’s hobbies include chasing stuff, most any stuff, including bubbles, despite the dangers of landing in burns (that’s a Scottish term for a small stream to you non-Scots folk, don’t worry).

Cooper is very Loud and unaware that he is very loud. Something I can empathise with. He also loves cuddles despite being a big boy and has acquired the nickname Velcro Vizsla from his loved ones.  Lovely to meet you, Cooper!

That’s the first installment of pets of the library. Hopefully, we will be able to let you meet some more lovely animals in the future.

Read more about past pets of the Library in our articles on Cats and Dogs in the Library

Also, check our LibrarySearch.napier.ac.uk for resources we have available on animals.

By Juliet Kinsey

All pet photos copyright of their owners

Spotlight on Craiglockhart Library

Spotlight on Craiglockhart Library

23/07/2025 / / 0 Comments

Spotlight on Craiglockhart Library

Craiglockhart Library is the library for the Business School. Here you will find books covering a range of business topics such as leadership, marketing and law. The library is located in the basement of the campus, down the stairs leading off the foyer.

General

As you reach the bottom of the stairs and before you access the library you will see a whiteboard with information about upcoming library events. Just inside the entrance we have a display table for promotions such as Love your Library and Pride and a stand with the QR code for booking a library tour.

Stock

Print books are stocked in 2 main areas – main stock, which is the largest section and the law section which can be found in the Law Hub.

We have a small number of print journals and DVDs following on from the end of the main stock. Back issues of the Financial Times are held there too.

Our Wellbeing collection has books on subjects such as anxiety, sexuality, exam stress etc.

Study spaces

There are a variety of different spaces for studying in the library. There are group study rooms which are bookable, collaborative desks and booths which are first come first served, a silent study room and a quiet study room. One of our group study rooms is a family room with books and toys for small children.

Services provided

Pcs, some with dual screens and a small number of Macs. Assistive technology PC.

Power for laptops and charging.

Lapsafe for self-service laptop loans.

Click and Collect shelf for requested items. Self-service kiosk for issuing and returning books.

Printers.

Helpdesk

At the library helpdesk we can assist with connecting Eduroam, the university recommended network

using the lapsafe

directional queries

advice on long term laptop loans

issuing inter library loans and you can also collect your print services requests from here. Also a range of ergonomic equipment such as keyboard, mouse and headphones can be borrowed from here.

Wellbeing

Along with our Wellbeing Collection of books, there is a relaxation space for you to take time out from your studies. Books, games, origami paper and colouring sheets are provided. There are also tables for completing jigsaws.

War Poets Collection

At present, the collection and exhibits do not have a curator, but library staff can offer a limited amount of assistance regarding the collection.

We hope to see you soon at Craiglockhart library!

By Vivienne Hamilton

 Read more about the library here

Image of Radio stuff for National Amateur Radio Day

National Amateur Radio Day

18/04/2025 / / 0 Comments

National Amateur Radio Day

Radio perhaps does not have the ubiquity in people’s lives as it did before. It was once the premier mass medium for music as well as information, until the 1960s at least. Spotify playlists tend to rule the roost in cafes and pubs nowadays, with playlists often generated by algorithm. Now, television as well as micro news from social media is the predominant way we consume our news, fake or otherwise – whether we like it or not. Radio has been at the heart of musical innovation too, from the Radio Ballads made by the BBC (1958-1964), to the over-layered noise experiments of John Cage’s Radio Music (1956), using transistor radios as instruments. In a similar spirit, Radiophrenia, the Glasgow-based sound art and radio initiative of Timothea Armour, Mark Vernon and Stevie Jones, is currently broadcasting as part of its annual festival of left of the dial material.

Pirate Radio

Pirate (i.e unofficial or unlicensed) radio was also key to certain periods of genre innovation and expansion in music – for example, Radio Luxembourg and rock n roll in the late 60s; jungle, drum & bass etc were promoted by local London pirate stations at a key time for electronic music innovation in the late 80s/early 90s. Student Radio stations have also attained legendary cult status – e.g WFMU in New Jersey, and KEXP in Washington State. WFMU is known for it’s ‘freeform radio’ approach, which prioritizes eclectic and unusual, non-commercial music as well as talk radio. KEXP, another station that has its roots in university education, was a major promoter of grunge music as it broke through to the mainstream in the early 1990s. To this day, it regularly hosts up and coming as well as more established bands (these have attained a high level of popularity on YouTube). Some still broadcast on radio frequency, such as the college station in my home town of Galway (Flirt F.M).

Online Radio

However, there has been an explosion of online stations which do not broadcast on any radio frequency. Due to licensing costs as well as the limited bandwidth on radio frequency, many radio producers opt to stream on the internet. Close to home, our own Edinburgh Napier Radio Group (ENRG) is an incredibly active radio station that broadcasts online only. This year, it celebrates 10 years of operation, the product of the innovative, productive tendencies of the staff and students that brought it into being. Their work spans a range of topics, from news to music; fittingly, it is a professional operation, with an ‘all action’ website that has an eye on the cutting edge of mass media today.

By Kieran Curran

Read more fascinating articles on the Library Blog Like: International Forest Day

International Record Store Day image of record player on a turntable. AI generated

International Record Store Day

12/04/2025 / / 0 Comments

A Celebration of International Record Store Day

Vinyl lovers, rejoice! Every year, music fans around the world celebrate International Record Store Day (RSD). It’s a day dedicated to independent record stores, rare vinyl releases, and the joy of discovering music the old-school way. But how did this tradition start? Let’s take a spin through its history.

The Birth of Record Store Day

International Record Store Day (RSD) started in 2007 when a group of record store owners had an idea. Streaming was on the rise, and digital music threatened physical sales. They wanted to remind the world of the magic of vinyl. So, in 2008, the first Record Store Day was held. It featured exclusive vinyl releases, live performances, and packed indie shops. It was a hit! Music fans of all kinds flocked to local stores, eager to grab limited-edition records and experience the thrill of crate-digging.

The event wasn’t just about sales. It was about celebrating music culture, independent artists, and the unique charm of brick-and-mortar record shops. Stores that once faced the threat of closing saw a resurgence of interest. Record collectors, both young and old, came together to share their love of vinyl.

The Growth of a Global Phenomenon

What started in the U.S. quickly spread worldwide. Today, Record Store Day happens in countries across the globe. Every April, artists release special editions, fans queue outside their favourite shops, and live music fills the air. Big names like David Bowie, Taylor Swift, and Prince have all had exclusive RSD releases. But it’s not just about the stars. Independent and underground artists also use RSD as a platform to reach new audiences.

The event has helped drive the vinyl resurgence. Over the past decade, vinyl sales have soared, proving that physical music is far from dead. Collectors appreciate the superior sound quality, the detailed album art, and the joy of flipping through records in a store.

Why Vinyl Still Matters

There’s something special about vinyl. The crackle of the needle, the album artwork, the feeling of holding music in your hands—it’s an experience. Record Store Day keeps that alive. It supports small businesses and keeps music culture thriving. In a world of instant streaming, RSD reminds us to slow down and savour music in a more meaningful way.

Join the Celebration!

Want to be part of the fun? Find a participating store near you. Get there early, hunt for hidden gems, and maybe even catch a live show. Whether you’re a longtime collector or just curious, RSD welcomes everyone.

So, dust off that turntable and get ready to spin. Happy Record Store Day!

Resources

Local Edinburgh Record Stores:

Vinyl Villains: An Edinburgh Staple
Assai Records Edinburgh
Underground Solution
Thorne Records: Just round the corner from our Merchiston Campus!

We have a wide variety of resources in the Library for you to access. We have books, sheet music and digital resources for listening online. Check out LibrarySearch to find out more.

By Juliet Kinsey

Read more on Music here on the blog with: The Article: World Music Day

 

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

International Children's Book Day AI generated image of a child with a book grinning

International Children’s Book Day

02/04/2025 / / 0 Comments

International Children’s Book Day

Unlocking Imagination and Knowledge in Children

April 2nd is a day filled with wonder and imagination. It’s International Children’s Book Day! This special day celebrates the joy of reading and honours the power of stories to shape young minds.

The Origins

International Children’s Book Day was first celebrated in 1967. It was established by the International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY). The date was chosen to honour Hans Christian Andersen, the famous Danish author known for timeless tales like “The Little Mermaid” and “The Ugly Duckling.”

Why Reading Matters

Books open doors to new worlds. They spark creativity and teach valuable lessons. For children, reading is not just about words on a page. It’s about adventures, dreams, and learning about different cultures and experiences. Reading helps develop language skills, boosts imagination, and improves concentration. Plus, it’s a great way for families to bond.

The Role of Illustrations

Illustrations play a crucial role in children’s books. They enhance the storytelling experience, making it more engaging and easier to understand. Vibrant pictures help young readers visualize characters and scenes, aiding comprehension and memory. For early readers, illustrations provide context clues that support word recognition and vocabulary development. We have lots of great books on illustration including this one: When we were young : two centuries of children’s book illustration

Famous Children’s Books

  • “Harry Potter” by J.K. Rowling
  • “Charlotte’s Web” by E.B. White
  • “Where the Wild Things Are” by Maurice Sendak
  • “Matilda” by Roald Dahl

These classics have inspired generations and continue to captivate young readers. What are some of your favourite children’s stories? Comment below

The Power of Reading

Reading isn’t just fun. It helps build empathy and critical thinking. When children dive into stories, they step into different perspectives and learn about kindness, bravery, and friendship. With the help of beautiful illustrations, stories come alive and leave a lasting impact on young minds.

So have a Happy International Children’s Book Day. Perhaps you might want to write your own one day. If so check out lots of great resources at librarysearch.napier.ac.uk.

By Juliet Kinsey

read more fun posts on our blog such as: Books that shaped you

woman planning her meals for blog post Healthy Eating at Uni: A Student’s Guide to Feeling Great!

Healthy Eating at Uni: A Student’s Guide to Feeling Great!

01/03/2025 / / 0 Comments

Healthy Eating at Uni: A Student’s Guide to Feeling Great!

University life is all about independence, late nights, and, let’s be honest, some questionable eating habits. But before you reach for that fourth pot noodle this week, let’s talk about how you can eat well without breaking the bank (or spending hours in the kitchen!).

1. Plan Ahead – Your Wallet Will Thank You!

It’s easy to grab whatever’s closest when you’re starving, but a little planning goes a long way. Before you do your food shop, make a simple meal plan for the week. This helps you avoid impulse buys and ensures you’ve got nutritious meals lined up.

2. Budget-Friendly and Nutritious Staples

Stock up on healthy, affordable essentials like:

  • Oats – Perfect for breakfast and super cheap.
  • Rice and pasta – Easy to cook and versatile.
  • Beans and lentils – Packed with protein and fibre.
  • Frozen fruit and veg – Just as nutritious as fresh and lasts longer.

3. Cook in Batches

Save time and effort by batch-cooking meals. Meal planning is a great way to take the stress out of what to eat. Fill up some tuppawear (or leftover takeaway tubs) with healthy meals and snacks, and leave it in the fridge to grab when you’re hungry. Make a big pot of chilli, curry, or pasta sauce and portion it out for the week. Not only will future-you be grateful, but it also stops you from grabbing unhealthy takeaway when you’re too tired to cook.

4. Healthy Swaps That Don’t Feel Like Sacrifices

Small changes can make a big difference. Try swapping:

  • White bread for wholemeal.
  • Sugary cereals for porridge with fruit.
  • Fizzy drinks for water or squash.
  • Crisps for nuts or popcorn.

5. Don’t Skip Meals

With lectures, assignments, and socialising, it’s easy to forget to eat properly. Skipping meals leads to energy crashes and bad food choices later. Start your day with a filling breakfast and keep healthy snacks (like bananas or yoghurt) on hand.

6. Stay Hydrated

Caffeine might fuel your study sessions, but don’t forget water! Aim for at least 6-8 glasses a day to stay focused and energised. Smoothies are another great drink and an easy way to pack yourself full of healthy fruit whilst hydrating.

7. Enjoy Treats in Moderation

Being healthy doesn’t mean cutting out all the fun stuff. Love chocolate? Enjoy it! Just aim for balance – maybe swap out some late-night pizza for a homemade wrap now and then. Try some dark chocolate or dried fruit when you’re craving sweets.

8. Get Inspired by Health Influencers

Need some motivation? Follow fun and relatable health influencers who share easy recipes and tips for students:

  • @thefoodmedic (Instagram & TikTok) – A doctor sharing nutritious and practical meals.
  • @moribyan(Instagram & YouTube) – Yummy treats
  • @violet.cooks (Instagram & TikTok) – quick and easy lunch ideas

Final Thoughts

Eating well at uni doesn’t have to be boring or expensive. With a little planning and a few smart swaps, you’ll feel more energised, focused, and ready to take on your studies. Now, go forth and fuel your brain the right way!

By Juliet Kinsey

Want to improve yourself more? Read our post on How to achieve your New Year’s Resolution

Read more related articles from our blog, such as our post on meditation, or check out our Wellness Collection guides and online relaxation space.

Photo of trees for National tree Week blog post

National Tree Week

25/11/2024 / / 0 Comments

National Tree Week

National Tree Week begins on November 25 and continues until December 3. It marks the start of the tree-planting season, providing a wonderful opportunity to celebrate trees. If possible, volunteers can join tree-planting activities organized by local groups and conservation organizations. If planting isn’t an option, consider finding some “Tree Time” to connect with nature in other ways.

Trees play essential roles in ecosystems around the world. They offer food, shelter, and habitats to many species while stabilizing eroding riverbanks. More importantly, as climate change remains a major issue, trees help mitigate it by capturing carbon dioxide, a key greenhouse gas, in their tissues and releasing oxygen.

Background

After the last Ice Age ended about 9,000 years ago, Scotland’s native trees and shrubs began to populate the landscape. Ancient oaks, Scots pines, and Caledonian pines once covered the region, but various events have reduced tree numbers over the centuries.

More than 4,000 years ago, cooler and wetter climates limited tree growth on higher ground. At the same time, woodlands were cleared for farming, a trend that has continued for centuries to make space for housing and infrastructure. In the early 20th century, World War I led to further deforestation, though the Forestry Commission, founded in 1919, aimed to restore Britain’s woods. While large pine plantations were created, conservation efforts now focus on diverse species to provide better habitats for wildlife.

In recent years, severe winter storms like Storm Arwen in 2021 caused significant tree loss in Scotland. Disease has also taken a toll, including Dutch Elm disease, which has destroyed many elms across the country.

The Future

Following devolution, the Scottish government assumed responsibility for forestry and established Scottish Forestry, focusing on native woodlands and conservation. Across Scotland, volunteers, conservation groups, and private estates are planting trees to increase biodiversity. For example, Project Laxford on the Reay Forest Estate in Sutherland aims to boost salmon numbers in the River Laxford by re-establishing trees along riverbanks. This project plans to plant one million trees to improve biodiversity and habitat health in the area.

Famous Trees

The Glen Affric Elm – The Last Ent of Affric: Known as “The Last Ent” after Tolkien’s tree creatures, this lone elm stands in Glen Affric, surviving Dutch Elm disease likely due to its remote location. Thought to be the last remnant of an ancient forest, it won Scotland’s Tree of the Year in 2019.

The Fortingall Yew: Estimated to be 5,000 years old, this yew tree in Fortingall churchyard is one of the oldest in the world. Once used in funerals, the tree is closely linked with life and resurrection, as its branches can re-root to grow anew. Over time, it has suffered damage from rituals, fires, and cuttings. In 2015, part of the tree even changed, sprouting red berries and showing signs of stress.

These trees reveal the complex ways humans impact nature, underscoring the importance of ongoing conservation efforts.

Find out more

You can find books and articles about trees and conservation using Library Search.

By Vivienne Hamilton

Image Source: Photo by Arnaud Mesureur on Unsplash

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