Talking around the library tree

In the second of these two episodes on writing reports,Sarah and Rafel continue their discussion around the complexities of writing reports. Rafael shares some of his key learnings from writing reports for different disciplines, and expectations around sections of reports, including;executive summaries, limitations, and appendices. Sarah and Rafael also discuss some of those assignments which crossover between essay and reports, and highlight how students can navigate hybrid essay/report assignments. In this series, we hear our student writing mentorsdiscussing different aspects of study. These podcasts are intended for any student in UK Higher Education, and they may be of particular use for people new to studying. They are conversational and should be understood as an informal source of guidance.Produced by writing mentors from the Learning Developmentteam Credits: Sarah Robin and Rafael Ageno.

In this episode, Sarah speaks with one of our student writingmentors, Rafael. Rafael shares some of his experiences around writing reports,including strategies for success, expectations of report writing, andpresenting data effectively. In this series, we hear our student writing mentorsdiscussing different aspects of study. These podcasts are intended for anystudent in UK Higher Education, and they may be of particular use for peoplenew to studying. They are conversational and should be understood as aninformal source of guidance.Produced by writing mentors from the Learning Developmentteam Credits: Sarah Robin and Rafael Ageno.

On the importance of slow scholarship in universities, meeting students where they are, and the role of Nan Shepherd’s poetry in providing inspiration for researchin the natural sciences.Sophie chats to Louise, the Learning Developer for the Faculty of Science and Technology and one of the co-founders of the Scientific Writing Centre. “Even if I’m not having a good experience with writing, it doesn’t mean it will always be bad. It’s ultimately about your own journey as a writer”

On learning how to write from creative writers, the unexpected role of emotions in scientific writing, and the hidden amount of work behind what we read at university. Sophie chats to Beth, the Learning Developer for the Faculty of Health and Medicine and one of the co-founders of the Scientific Writing Centre. “Just write, write something, it doesn’t matter what. Just write.”

On reading when stuck, the importance of taking a break, and dealing with rejection in academic writing.  Sophie chats to Liying, a Scientific Writing Mentor, and doctoral student in Linguistics. “Academic writing builds on experiences, just like fiction writing. Whether it’s experiences with reading, experiences with writing. Your experiences do shape how you write”.

On getting ‘in the writing zone’, approaching writing like a conversation, and on being neurodivergent in academia.  Sophie chats to Nicholas, a Scientific Writing Mentor, and doctoral student in Nuclear Chemistry. “Even though we feel that our voices don’t mattersometimes, it is always worth speaking up and joining the conversation”

On finding identity in academic writing, writing in a second language, and on sending “imperfect” drafts to PhD supervisors. Sophie chats to Sofia, a Scientific Writing Mentor, civil engineer, and doctoral student in the Lancaster Environment Centre. “There is no such thing as a perfect piece of writing. Allow yourself to learn, allow yourself to try, and find your style. The beauty I’ve found in writing is that you can go back to it as many times as you want”

On keeping the dopamine gremlin happy in academia, giving yourself grace, and on finding what works best for you in writing.  Sophie chats to Charlotte, a Scientific Writing Mentor and a doctoral student in Biomedical and Life Sciences. “I have to find ways to enjoy the process, because sometimes all I’m looking for is the result. Just know that you do have the capacity within you, and time will tell what the conditions are to achieve it”

Learning Development, Lancaster UniversityIn this series, we hear our student writing mentorsdiscussing different aspects of study. These podcasts are intended for any student in UK Higher Education, and they may be of particular use for people new to studying. They are conversational and should be understood as an informal source of guidance.Produced by writing mentors from the Learning Development team (Chief creator: Imogen Sanderson). Credits: Sarah Robin, Anisha Varughese, Yaashi Sharma, Yuki Zhu, Luke Parkinson, Luke Howarth, and Carla Basha.In ‘Critical Reading’, listen to Imogen have a conversationwith Anisha, Yuki, and Luke, about the concept of criticality in reading. They talk about the complexities of criticality, and common misconceptions. The mentors give advice on how you can approach criticality and become a criticalreader.

Learning Development, Lancaster UniversityIn this series, we hear our student writing mentors discussing different aspects of study. These podcasts are intended for any student in UK Higher Education, and they may be of particular use for people new to studying. They are conversational and should be understood as an informal source of guidance.Produced by writing mentors from the Learning Development team (Chief creator: Imogen Sanderson). Credits: Sarah Robin, Anisha Varughese, Yaashi Sharma, Yuki Zhu, Luke Parkinson, Luke Howarth, and Carla Basha.In episode 2, we hear from student mentors Carla and Luke, talking about academic reading. We focus on how you can find legitimate and useful reading material, and how you can make effective notes. The mentors also discuss some of the struggles in approaching large areas of reading, chatting about strategies for managing reading load.

Learning Development, Lancaster UniversityIn this series, we hear our student writing mentorsdiscussing different aspects of study. These podcasts are intended for any student in UK Higher Education, and they may be of particular use for people new to studying. They are conversational and should be understood as an informal source of guidance.Produced by writing mentors from the Learning Development team (Chief creator: Imogen Sanderson). Credits: Sarah Robin, Anisha Varughese,Yaashi Sharma, Yuki Zhu, Luke Parkinson, Luke Howarth, and Carla Basha.In this episode of the Study Files, listen to Imogen chatwith Yaashi, Anisha, and Carla, about the highs and lows of groupwork. We hope you have fun listening to them share their experiences, and gain insights for makingyour groupwork project a success.

This week’s episode discusses the hot topic of the ethical use of Artificial Intelligence in academic research. Our Research Data Manager, Jenny McHugh, talks to Joe Lindley, Senior Research Fellow in the School of Design about his use of AI in creative practice. Joe is also involved in a project called Responsible AI, which discusses the best way to license your AI research outputs. Listen to find out more about the challenges and opportunities of working with AI in a creative discipline. 

In this episode of Talking around the Library Tree, Andy is joined by Jim Patten to talk about the Patten Collection. This is a collection of World War 2 ephemera collected by Peter Patten, Jims father.The collection was donated to Lancaster University in the 1980s and contains over 1000 items covering all aspects of life in the war time period.Jim discusses how the collection came about, thoughts about his dad and shares a fascinating story about his son accessing the collection as a student at Lancaster.

This episode explores the long-standing impact of our library's outreach to local schools, Andy Holgate chats with Ben Wood, Religious Studies lead at Haslingdon High School, particularly focusing on EPQ and coursework students. Ben has been bringing students from Haslingdon High School to Lancaster University Library for the past eight years.  In this episode they explore how these visits equip students with essential skills, setting them ahead of their peers, through access to university resources and the invaluable support of our faculty librarians. Learn how early access helps students navigate academic libraries, reduce anxiety, and encourages students to look into their future university journeys.

In this episode of the podcast, Tom is joined by Professor Richard Brook, Professor in Architecture at Lancaster University, to discuss their latest publication "The Renewal of Post-War Manchester: Planning, Architecture and the State". During the interview they discuss Richards experiences of publishing the book open access and why the impacts this has made on potential audiences for their work. You can find out more about Richards book here: http://www.research.lancs.ac.uk/portal/en/publications/-(8826fd08-205a-4488-8107-cc5bc3ae1030).htmlFind out more about Lancaster University's research activities, view details of publications, outputs and awards and make contact with our researchers. 

This episode of our podcast Talking Around the Library Tree focuses on Lancaster University’s commitment to addressing the climate emergency. Louise Speakman (the Library’s Head of Engagement) speaks to Dr Georgiana Allison (Head of Sustainability) and Tim Leonard (The Library’s Associate Director: Space, Experience and Innovation) about the university’s net zero goals, its sustainability strategy and the role of the Library.Sustainability at Lancaster University: Sustainability at Lancaster University Lancaster University Library and Sustainability: Library 2025 Vision

In this episode of Talking Around the Library Tree, Luke and Edward from our Library Student Ambassador team reflect on their experiences working in the library and how this has benefited their development. The Library student ambassador team support the library on open days, as well as working on a variety of projects and events throughout the academic year.

Andy Holgate is joined by Paul Newnham, the FASS Teaching and Learning Librarian for this episode of Talking around the Library Tree. Paul talks about his favourite database (Mass Observation Archive), impactful books (Primo Levi, If this is a Man), and the joy of student learning. Plus, advice on being organised, and why it is never too late to learn – like picking up guitar at 57

From the importance of evidence-based study to a quirky anecdote about a past life as a fantasy hair model (appearing on the covers of books in various heroic poses). Join Andy Holgate in a conversation with John Barbrook, the content librarian for FST and FHM here at Lancaster University whose role deals with the sometimes-chaotic world of library resource acquisition. John discusses the crucial role of grey literature, often overlooked in traditional research and explores the importance of decolonising library collections. The conversation takes a nostalgic turn as John reminisces about Stephen Baxter's "Raft" – a book that evokes memories of their local library and its unique charm. Andy and John also discuss the unexpected connection between the end of sleep and kebabs (you'll have to listen to find out more!).

In this first episode of two, under the theme of students as partners, Anna (MASH Manager) is interviewing Malek (MASH tutor). Malek as one of the oldest members of the MASH team, talks about his tutoring experience, collaborating with Learning Developers and tutors to support the student learning. Malek shares insights from from his collaboration with MASH, his journey from a new in-experienced tutor to mentoring and supporting new tutors, and shares someuseful tips. 

In part 2 of our special episodes on students as partners, Anna (MASH Manager) welcomes Patrick in his MASH tutoring role. Patrick talks about his varied roles at the university and what he has gained from his MASH tutoring experience. Anna and Patrick discuss about their ongoing collaboration on co-creation for the MASH workshop series Brush up your stats skills. 

In this episode Andy Holgate chats with Gemma (Gem) Sosnowsky, Faculty Librarian for Health and Medicine at Lancaster University where they discuss the importance of time management and the benefits of students seeking support if or when it is needed. Gem also shares insights from her recent experience judging at a comic book festival.

From Northern Lights to independent bookshops, join Andy Holgate for a chat with Ciara Murray, Faculty of Arts and Sciences/Law Librarian at Lancaster University whose love of literature shines brightly.Andy and Ciara explore the excitement of discovering new worlds through books, the magic of Philip Pullman, and the unique experience of book buying in independent bookstores.Up for discussion are effective strategies for using secondary resources, developing your own literary voice and even touching on the surprising connection between ceilidh bands and Padua.

Join us for a conversation with Bob Frost, Faculty Librarian at FST, as he shares his insights on supporting student success at Lancaster University. Bob discusses his personal highlight of welcoming the first group of refugees from the community, in partnership with Global Link, and remembers his unforgettable Leipzig visit (and the best lager!). Bob shares his passion for authors like Brandon Sanderson and John Steinbeck (though choosing a favourite book is a near-impossible task!). We explore the importance of building essential research skills early on, avoiding the dreaded dissertation meltdown, and how seeking advice can even change your career path, as it did for Bob. Plus, we delve into the exciting world of academic research, with Bob sharing his enthusiasm for SCOPUS and telling the (slightly embarrassing) story of getting kicked out of the National Library of Germany for wearing a coat that was, shall we say, a bit too bulky! Have a listen and share with everyone you know!

In this latest episode of Talking Around the Library Tree, author, illustrator and lecturer, Ines G Lebarta joins Ciara and Gem to talk about graphic novels and the impact they can have.

In this episode of the podcast, we are joined by Claire McGann to discuss the Open Book Futures project, which aims to initiate a step-change in the ambition, scope and impact of community-led Open Access book publishing. Find out more about the project here: https://copim.pubpub.org/open-book-futures-project 

An interview with Tim Leonard, Associate Director: Space, experience and innovation of Lancaster University Library, discussing the Sir Humphry Davy's Notebook digital collection and how the Library collaborated on the project. https://digitalcollections.lancaster.ac.uk/

In this episode, Andy Holgate sits down with Anastasia Kelly, the Faculty Librarian for the Management School at Lancaster University. They chat about the diverse nature of Anastasia's role, sharing experiences on staying up to date with databases and embracing new technologies like Google! Anastasia shares anecdotes about the BLA Conference held at Lancaster University post-COVID, likening it to inviting friends over for tea. Have a listen for an insightful conversation and find out about a memorable encounter with the England football manager!

Join us as Andy Holgate chats with Rebecca Howarth, Head of Learning Development at Lancaster University. In this episode Rebecca shares her experiences as a student. She talks about the common challenges of academic pressure and post-covid student experience and offers advice on time management and study techniques. Plus, find out which famous person shares her birthday! Learning Development : https://portal.lancaster.ac.uk/ask/contact/library/learning-development/ including moodle pages and libcal booking

In this episode, we explore the role of embedding library skills into academic programmes. Join us as we chat with Joanna Kostka, a lecturer in social work at Lancaster University, about the importance of embedding library research skills into the curriculum. Discover how libraries can empower students to become independent learners and critical thinkers.

Michael Hughes is a Professor in History at Lancaster University. Michael has recently published an Open Access (OA) monograph titled 'Feliks Volkhovskii: A Revolutionary Life'. In this episode we will discuss Michaels experience of publishing their book open access. The interview will explore why they chose to publish Open Access, the impact it has had on potential audiences of their work and the process of publishing the book OA. 

Ever wondered how can you better manage your research data or evidence? Is there a way to make your work more accessible to researchers and go ‘beyond the article’? Lancaster’s Research Data Managers past and present, Joanne Fitzpatrick and Jenny McHugh, talk to us about open research data and the University’s new ‘Research Data Sharing and Archiving Policy’.

In this episode of the podcast Tom Morley is joined by Dr. Deirdre Duffy, Senior Lecturer (Global Social Inequalities) in the Department of Sociology, Lancaster University. Deirdre has recently published their monograph, Abortion Trail Activism: The Global Infrastructures for Abortion Access, Open Access. During the podcast Deirdre discusses their experience of publishing their book Open Access, including why they decided to publish their work open access, the impact this has had on potential audiences for their work, and what their experience was of undergoing this process. Abortion Trail Activism: The Global Infrastructures for Abortion

In this episode of Talking Around the Library Tree we’re discussing Open Educational Resources. Open educational resources are academic resources, such as textbooks, that are published with an open licence. This means they can usually be shared, downloaded and accessed online, or via reading lists free of charge. This has real benefits for ensuring equitable access for all students to their learning materials. To help us discuss this topic we are  joined by Dr Jan Grabowski, Senior Lecturer in Algebra and Geometry, School of Mathematical Sciences at Lancaster University. Jan is currently in the process of publishing an Open Access textbook and will be sharing their experiences of the process and their rational for wanting to publish an open access educational resource."

This episode brings together the four founders of the SR Self-Taught Community of Practice for their first in-person meeting.  Louise Speakman (Lancaster University) chats with Erin Bloxsidge (University of Surrey), Kathryn Devine (university of Worcester) and Giada Zanella (Aston University), expect a lively and authentic conversation covering everything from academic librarianship to their dream jobs. SR Self Taught Community of Practice: https://discord.gg/h5bSsM7B

In this latest episode of Talking Around the Library Tree, host, Louise Speakman is joined by Andrew Barker. The Lancaster University Library director discusses his role, his history in libraries, challenges for the sector, "Being brave", Mills and Boon novels and ambitions of being a Flâneur. So sit back, grab a brew and get an insight into what makes Andrew tick.

In this special episode, host, John Barbrook (Factulty Librarian for Medicine) chats to special guest, Dr Rianna Price (Project Co-ordinator for the Ethics, Values, and Poliicy Initiative) about her research: Medicalisation of Queerness in India from 1977-2020. They also discuss using LGBTQ+ resources in your research. Useful links mentioned: Decolonising Literature Guide Grey Literature Guide

This episode of Talking around the Library tree focuses on Refugee Week and the library support available to the refugee and asylum seeker community in Lancaster. This episode features James Stephens (University of Cumbria Library), Allanah Hodgkinson (Lancashire County Council) and Bob Frost (Lancaster University Library). Here are the weeks events:  1.       Tuesday - Refugee Week Event 2024 in LU campus: Introduction to Ebru Art from Turkey, Tuesday 18th June 2024, FASS Meeting Room 2 and 3, 12.30 to 3 pm. Free workshop and lunch – requires registration. See ⁠LINK⁠ and attached poster. Open only to staff and students of Lancaster University. LU 2.       Tuesday 2pm Dukes Theatre Screening of digital stories and films made by local asylum seekers and refugees. GLOBAL LINK 3.       Wednesday – 2-4pm St Thomas’ Church, Lancaster: Chai and Chat, sip on chai, taste different cuisines, converse with people from diverse backgrounds. A great opportunity to make new friends, share stories and learn about different cultures. requires registration - link ⁠HERE⁠ASYLUM SEEKER & REFUGEE SUPPORT NETWORK. 4.       Thursday (World Refugee Day) 4-6pm Herbarium Café (Great John Street LA1 1NQ. Migration Art Exhibition – paintings by local women of the RAS community. GLOBAL LINK 5.       Saturday East meets West Family Friendly Cultural Fair, Lancaster Central Library Come and support the Women of East meets West showcasing their homelands. Craft activities and food to taste. We will also be there to promote the Sanctuary Collections at LU and UoC. EAST MEETS WEST     ⁠East Meets West Lancaster | Facebook⁠ ⁠Global Link – Development Education Centre⁠ ⁠Become a volunteer in Lancashire • Lancashire Volunteer Partnership (lancsvp.org.uk)⁠ ⁠RAIS Lancaster – Refugee Advocacy, Information and Support⁠ ⁠Asylum Seekers & Refugees — St Thomas' Church Lancaster (tees.org.uk)⁠ ⁠Welcome - Library support for the refugee community - LibGuides at Lancaster University⁠ ⁠About the Lancashire Refugee and Asylum Strategic Partnership - Lancashire County Council⁠ ⁠Home | More Music⁠

In this final episode in the series; Fabiha, Nicola and Paul talk about career pathways, skills and qualifications, pay and rewards in university libraries and the wider information sector.

In this second episode of three; Fabiha, Nicola and Paul talk about emerging technologies such as AI and how libraries are often at the forefront of digital innovation.

In this first episode of a trilogy; Fabiha, Nicola and Paul talk about their roles at Lancaster University Library. They also talk about the wide variety of roles within the library team (can you guess how many?) and the wider library and information sector.

In this episode, award winning librarian, Louise Speakman chats with Andy about his new role at Lancaster University Library. Louise talks to Andy about being a librarian, an author, awards ceremonies, celeb spotting, Linkedin Learning, the differences between being a morning person and a night owl, and sharks. It's certainly not your average library chat!