Things in the library 22nd April

Things about new staff...

As I'm sure most of you are aware, Gill Kaye retired last year, leaving a very large blog shaped hole. My name is Jessica, and I'm the new(ish) Assistant Librarian, and that makes me the new blogger too. I used to do a very similar job at Barnsley Hospital, and I have travelled many library sectors in the past, working in academic, public, museum and science research libraries. It's nice to meet you!

Things about digital literacy...

The London School of Economics has written an article on how digital literacy interventions can safeguard young people from the impact of online harm. It found that children and young people with poorer mental health and wellbeing can be more susceptible to victimisation online and discusses building digital resilience in children and young people. Recommendations include: finding ways to protect children from online harm whilst not restricting the positives of internet use; and carrying out further research into the link between digital literacy and wellbeing.

Things about mental health and wellbeing...

The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) has opened a consultation on mental health and wellbeing in England. This is being conducted to facilitate the development of a ten-year plan on mental health. Views will be gathered on areas such as improving wellbeing in children and young people. The Department is looking to gain various views from those who work with people who may be affected by mental ill-health such as children and young people. The deadline to complete the survey is 05 July 2022. 

The Mental Elf writes about social media and the promotion of disordered eating, focusing on a study from Monash University looking at the language used, the hashtags coined and the way in which users interact on Twitter in order to propel this Pro-ED movement forwards.

Things about children in care...

The Nuffield Family Justice Observatory has published a report summary sharing conclusions drawn from a recent study. As part of the study, 24 care-experienced children between the ages of 10 and 17 in England and Wales were interviewed to find out more about their journeys through the care system. Findings include: young people felt that they were placed on ‘opposing teams’ to their parents during the court process; support networks were broken down rather than sustained; children experienced feelings of loneliness and stigma; and supported placements were too focused on surveillance rather than development. Recommendations include: encouraging children to be informed and involved in decisions about their care, and helping children to maintain relationships and support networks.

Things about drawing...

Sheffield Museums are offering a mindful drawing class at Millennium Gallery. Embrace mindful drawing and enjoy an evening developing your sketching skills, working from different still life objects each week. Don’t worry if you’ve not picked up a pencil since school – it’s a relaxed and friendly group where all are welcome, from the more experienced artists to the absolute beginners. You can join any class through until June, on a Wednesday evening. 

Things lost...

We have some black glasses that were left in the library. If they are yours and you want them back, please come and get them!

Things to make...

I'm going to be keeping up the tradition of sharing a recipe at the end of the blog as I love cooking and sharing food. This tomato and coconut cassoulet by Anna Jones is one of my favourite really easy, flavoursome and satisfying meals to make.