LTA Connect - Exploring and celebrating the SLE: Empowering Learning With Library Technologies and Support: Talis Aspire, Lean Library, and LibGuides

Session Outline

This session will look at digital tools, services and support offered by the UHI Library. Focusing on Talis Aspire Resource Lists, Lean Library browser extension, and LibGuides, we will explore practical ways these resources assist teaching and improve student experience.

1. Talis Aspire Resource Lists (10 mins)
Talis Aspire simplifies resource management and improves student access to resources.
• Academic staff can easily create & manage resource lists with real-time book availability and direct links to eBooks, articles, websites and multimedia.
• Embedding lists in the VLE allows students view and interact with lists without leaving the Brightspace environment
• Submitting lists for Library reviews streamline resource requests process making sure students across partnership have access to relevant materials.
• Integration with the Digital Content Store for copyright-compliant digitisation of chapters from print-only books.
• Personalised options for students (e.g. reading intentions, notes)

Using Talis ensures resources remain current, relevant, and easy to access while saving you time.

2. Lean Library (10 mins)
Learn how this browser extension provides seamless access to UHI Library subscriptions and Open Access. Benefits of using the extension include:
• Instant access when content is available through UHI subscriptions
• Integration with Google Scholar to display UHI Library & JSTOR results
• Automatic discovery of free, legal Open Access alternatives
• UHI library eBook availability checks when browsing commercial sites
• Integrated support through Live Chat, FAQs, and LibGuides.

3. LibGuides and Live Chat (10 mins)
UHI LibGuides provide guidance on range of academic and research subjects and skills, such as accessing resources, referencing tools, copyright, and campus-specific services. Combined with Live Chat, they offer students consistent support at all study levels.
All tools highlighted in this session support Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion by offering flexible, accessible formats, reducing financial barriers, and providing timely support for students with varied circumstances and learning preferences.

Presenter

Kasia Szostak

I’m Kasia Szostak, a Systems Librarian at UHI. In my role, I support academic staff, students, and librarians in accessing and using library services, tools, and resources effectively. I’ve been part of UHI since 2016, starting as a Library Advisor at UHI Perth before moving into my current role in 2024. I hold a degree in Environmental Science from UHI and am passionate about sustainability and equitable access to information. I created the Library Environmental Hub, which was shortlisted for the College Development Network’s Sustainable Action Award in 2023. I’m proud to be part of the UHI Library Team, a partnership - wide group of librarians recognised with the 2025 Advance HE Collaborative Award for Teaching Excellence (CATE).

Learning and Teaching Enhancement Strategy Values

Advance HE Professional Standards Framework

• V1 respect individual learners and diverse groups of learners
• V2 promote engagement in learning and equity of opportunity for all to reach their potential
• K4 appropriate use of digital and/or other technologies, and resources for learning
• A4 support and guide learners

To Book

Please email events.lta@uhi.ac.uk to book a place on this event.

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