Category Archives: Library news

News and posts of interest from the library

New library self-service machines

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We are pleased to introduce our new library self-service machines. A total of 6 machines have been installed throughout the library:
• 2 on Level 1
• 1 each on Levels 0,2,3,4

The new library self-service machines have more functionality than the old models, you can now:

• Borrow and return books in one easy transaction – you can stack all your books on the machine shelf, there’s no need to place one book at a time as the improved functionality scans all of your books.

• Check your account details – gain immediate access to your account and renew books there and then, check and change any items you have on hold

NB: Staff who want to use the new machines please visit the Library Desk for further instruction.

Continue reading →

Smart tables

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In May we tweeted about our newest tech resource – the smart table, available on Level 1 of the Library.  We’ve just taken delivery of our second search table which can be found on Level 4 and expect the final two search tables delivered before the start of the new semester.

What are they?  Smart tables are a new digital tool to help you make better use of your library by providing instant access to library information and resources. Continue reading →

GCU approves Open Educational Resources (OER) policy

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The University Executive recently approved an Open Educational Resources (OER) policy. This policy places GCU among the key players in open practice in Scotland and the UK. You can view the policy on the university website.

What are OERs? OERs are digital materials that are made available online to be used or re-purposed for teaching, learning and research. They can include images, audio, video, animations, content modules and other digital resources. Continue reading →

Study spaces/Unattended belongings removal

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Study space in the library is in high demand.

Please don’t leave personal belongings to reserve a space in the Library.

Not only do you risk having your belongings stolen you are also depriving your fellow students of the opportunity to use a much-needed study space.

Following consultation with the Students’ Association, and after a poll on the topic – from Monday 23rd March 2015 library staff will implement a policy of removing unattended belongings to make PCs and study space available for other people to use.

The PCs in the Library will also auto log-off after periods of inactivity, and any PC which isn’t logged on will be made available for use by another person.

Do not leave your work station and belongings unattended at any time. Removed property can be collected from the Campus Security Office.

Library helps to raise £15,000 for charity

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As part of the Library’s regular review of stock, we strive to ethically  disposal of any withdrawn material. We are pleased to note that through the online sale of our withdrawn books between 1st February & 31st October 2014, our charity partners, The Book Rescuers, raised almost £15,000 for the African Children’s Educational Trust (A-CET).

The trust supports the education of African children through provision of scholarships and the upgrading of community elementary rural schools.

@ASKGCU on Twitter

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@ASKGCU Has finally arrived! A one stop shop, for any enquiries that need answering.  Expect a response within half a day at the latest.  We hope to provide a wide range of information on various aspects of life at the university.

Haud yer wheesht!

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In response to student feedback Level 4 of the Library has been transformed into a haven of quiet study and is now a silent study zone. There are individual study desks lining the wall or for those who prefer to spread out a large boardroom style table. The existing PCs have been moved to other floors so no study space is lost. We are always interested in student feedback – please use the Your Views service or ask for a form at The Base on Level 0, Saltire Centre.