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).html

Find 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.