New computer system in the library at Booth Lane

Just a little word about the new computer system in operation on the upper floor (level 3) of the library at Booth Lane.
It is a system which is in place to help all students and once everyone is used to it, I think everyone will see the benefits.
How it works:
1. You log with your username & password. Put these in the grey box which appears on the white library page. If you do not see the white library page, DO NOT log-in. Wait and it will appear. If it seems to be taking too long, come and see a member of staff. Don't be tempted to click on any other boxes you see.
2. When you have finished DO NOT log-off or shut down the PC. Make sure you use the grey box in the left-hand corner of the screen to 'End Session'. This is all you need to do.
2. You will have a maximum of 2 hours to work at the PC before you need to take a 1 hour break. The system will inform you of the amount of time you have left. You have 6 hours per day, per student.
3. Once you log off you will need to take your hours break, even if you were only on for 15 minutes.
Why it is good for students:
1. It will increase the fairness in the allocation of PC's.
2. It will help students to organise their day and workload more efficiently.
3. The dreaded health and safety- but it does matter. It is not good for you to sit in front of a computer all day. You need refreshment and air for your work to be the best!!
Ask us any questions you have. See you in the Library.

New Book Club

I thought this might be the perfect place for people to share information about books they have recently read, have always wanted to read or can recommend to others. Once the Six Book Challenge starts in January, library staff (who want to take part) will try to read a book once a month and comment on it, to support the students doing the Challenge. Any other staff or students who would like to do this are most welcome to join in.

So, since this is my idea I will start. I have just finished reading The Woman in Black by Susan Hill. It was very well-written and really made you believe in the character narrating the story. The ordinary details of everyday life within both the narrator's family life and his descriptions of towns and villages are a great contrast with the spooky and supernatural events he witnesses. I found myself completely with the character, experiencing what he does- hearing noises, opening doors into unknown rooms- and hoping for an explanation. Although you do get one, it turns out to be both poignant and horrifying. I highly recommend this book; it's not too long and evokes a really gothic atmosphere. It's apparently being turned into a film with Daniel Radcliffe, which I'll go and see, if only to compare.

Poetry Competition

Any budding poets out there? Why not have a go at the Library competition and see how you get on.

Assignment Help

Learning Assisants

Are you having any problems with assignments, such as:

• understanding the question
• finding resources
• referencing/ bibliography

If so, there are Learning Assistants available in the Libraries to help. We can do one-to-one, pairs or group sessions.  Drop into any of the centres and ask a member of staff for more details, or to explain your circumstances and we will do our best to assist you.

New Term!!

The Library would like to extend a warm welcome to all new students and staff. Library staff are available for any queries you may have, so please do come in and have a look round. Good luck with your new courses.
Well done to everyone who achieved what they wanted in last year's assesments. Don't forget we're here to help so if any of you want to improve your grades, the Library will be happy to point you in the right direction of the many great resources you can use.
Look forward to seeing you in the new term.