NU Library Newsletter
Summer Semester, June 2025
"The secret of success is to do the common things uncommonly well."
– John D. Rockefeller
Hello everyone!
We're excited to share the latest edition of our library newsletter for 2025!
As the academic year ended, it’s time to take a well-earned break. Summer is a great chance to relax, recharge, and get ready for the challenges ahead.
A special congratulations to the Class of 2025 on your graduation! We’re proud of your achievements and wish you continued success in your next chapter.
The NU Library team wishes you a refreshing and enjoyable summer!
As the academic year ended, it’s time to take a well-earned break. Summer is a great chance to relax, recharge, and get ready for the challenges ahead.
A special congratulations to the Class of 2025 on your graduation! We’re proud of your achievements and wish you continued success in your next chapter.
The NU Library team wishes you a refreshing and enjoyable summer!
Did you know that ...?
Self-service stations for borrowing and returning books located on the 2nd and 3rd floors of the Main Library are now available. They are designed to make the borrowing process quick and convenient, allowing users to check out or return materials independently without waiting in line.
These can be one-shot sessions or involve all or selected modules as part of the Information Literacy (IL) Program (Need for Information, Search Strategy, Evaluate Information, Use and Disseminate Information).
You can also book an individual session with the subject librarians. Otherwise, you can contact liblearn@nu.edu.kz or visit Yelizaveta, April, Darya in the Main Library (Floor 3, Block 5e, offices #322 and #324) or Aigerim at NU SoM (Floor 7, office #702).
You can also book an individual session with the subject librarians. Otherwise, you can contact liblearn@nu.edu.kz or visit Yelizaveta, April, Darya in the Main Library (Floor 3, Block 5e, offices #322 and #324) or Aigerim at NU SoM (Floor 7, office #702).
We value your feedback. Did we exceed your expectations?
"Dear Yelizaveta,
On behalf of the organizing team and all MSc students from the Higher Education, Inclusive Education, and School Education specializations, I would like to express our sincere thanks for the excellent workshop you conducted on Information Literacy: Searching and Evaluating Information, Citing and Referencing on May 23rd, 2025.
Your session was incredibly timely and practical, coming at a pivotal moment as students completed their specialization core and elective courses and now begin their thesis journey. The hands-on strategies you introduced for navigating scholarly databases, evaluating the credibility of sources, and using citation and reference management tools were invaluable. The emphasis you placed on ethical research practices and the responsible use of AI in information searching was also deeply appreciated. The skills and competencies students developed in this workshop will be essential as they conduct their literature reviews and begin framing their research topics.
These MSc students met their thesis supervisors for their Thesis Seminar 1, and your workshop gave them a strong and confident start to the next stage of their academic work.
We would also like to take this opportunity to acknowledge and thank the entire NU Library staff. Their ongoing support, expertise, and responsiveness continue to make a significant impact on the academic experience of our students. The library team plays an essential role in building research capacity and fostering academic integrity, contributing greatly to the overall performance and success of our MSc students at the Graduate School of Education.
Thank you once again for your dedication and for being such a valuable partner in our students’ learning journey."
On behalf of the organizing team and all MSc students from the Higher Education, Inclusive Education, and School Education specializations, I would like to express our sincere thanks for the excellent workshop you conducted on Information Literacy: Searching and Evaluating Information, Citing and Referencing on May 23rd, 2025.
Your session was incredibly timely and practical, coming at a pivotal moment as students completed their specialization core and elective courses and now begin their thesis journey. The hands-on strategies you introduced for navigating scholarly databases, evaluating the credibility of sources, and using citation and reference management tools were invaluable. The emphasis you placed on ethical research practices and the responsible use of AI in information searching was also deeply appreciated. The skills and competencies students developed in this workshop will be essential as they conduct their literature reviews and begin framing their research topics.
These MSc students met their thesis supervisors for their Thesis Seminar 1, and your workshop gave them a strong and confident start to the next stage of their academic work.
We would also like to take this opportunity to acknowledge and thank the entire NU Library staff. Their ongoing support, expertise, and responsiveness continue to make a significant impact on the academic experience of our students. The library team plays an essential role in building research capacity and fostering academic integrity, contributing greatly to the overall performance and success of our MSc students at the Graduate School of Education.
Thank you once again for your dedication and for being such a valuable partner in our students’ learning journey."
"Dear April,
I have had library presentations in my WCS 150 – Introduction to Academic Writing Course to give a variety of presentations on the academic research and writing process for two semesters in a row. Highlights of the librarians include:
Having crucial experience with and knowledge of the student population and their needs and best practices
Are skillfully able to adapt their presentations based on the skill level and to the particular stage of the students’ research/writing process.
The ability to effectively collaborate with faculty on maximizing the benefits of the presentation for the students.
Able to give knowledgeable responses to students’ questions and improve the students’ skills of finding, evaluating, presenting, and organizing information.
Presentations are also engaging and interactive with students and utilize current digital technology.
The librarians then also to point the students towards the other library resources that will further assist the students in other areas of the process."
Research Support
The library continues one-to-one support. You can discuss research strategies for your projects, assignments, or publishing articles with the librarian. Feel free to ask the Library’s Research Support Office to learn more about these opportunities. Contact lrso@nu.edu.kz or visit Lazzat or Ainash in the Library (Floor 3, Block 5e, office #323).
Whether you need help with research strategies, finding reliable sources, or using citation tools, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to support your academic success every step of the way.
Can’t make it to the library today? Ask our virtual librarian on duty, NURIA, or you can book a virtual appointment.
Whether you need help with research strategies, finding reliable sources, or using citation tools, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to support your academic success every step of the way.
Can’t make it to the library today? Ask our virtual librarian on duty, NURIA, or you can book a virtual appointment.
Moreover, our LibGuides are here to help you navigate these challenges with confidence. They are available 24/7.
Choosing the Right Research Methods for Your Project
Struggling to figure out how to collect or analyze your data? Not sure which research method fits your project best? You're not alone, and we’ve got you covered.
Check out our “Choosing Appropriate Research Methods & Methodologies” guide, designed to help you choose appropriate research design methods for your studies.
Check out our “Choosing Appropriate Research Methods & Methodologies” guide, designed to help you choose appropriate research design methods for your studies.
How to Read a Scholarly Article
Reading academic articles can be tough. There's a lot of complex language and unfamiliar terms. But with the right approach, you can make it easier.
Take a look at our guide: “How to Read a Scholarly Article.” It gives you simple, step-by-step tips to help you read journal articles with confidence.
Take a look at our guide: “How to Read a Scholarly Article.” It gives you simple, step-by-step tips to help you read journal articles with confidence.
Access to Online Resources
All NU community members have access to a wide range of online resources. Whether you're looking for educational materials or professional development, there's something for you.
NU Library provides access to world-class resources through Primo Discovery and the A–Z List. Our collections include databases, journals, eBooks, and videos from top academic providers such as Elsevier, Wiley, Taylor & Francis, Cambridge University Press, EBSCO, Proquest, Oxford Academic, Springer, and many more.
And remember, all of these resources are available 24/7!
NU Library provides access to world-class resources through Primo Discovery and the A–Z List. Our collections include databases, journals, eBooks, and videos from top academic providers such as Elsevier, Wiley, Taylor & Francis, Cambridge University Press, EBSCO, Proquest, Oxford Academic, Springer, and many more.
And remember, all of these resources are available 24/7!
Dear NURIA...
Dariya
NU student
Dear NURIA,
This summer semester, I am conducting research for a paper in my sociology class but I’m really stuck. I have a general topic (social media and mental health), but I don’t know how to narrow it down or what kind of sources I should be using. Can you help?
Best regards,
— Dariya
This summer semester, I am conducting research for a paper in my sociology class but I’m really stuck. I have a general topic (social media and mental health), but I don’t know how to narrow it down or what kind of sources I should be using. Can you help?
Best regards,
— Dariya
NURIA
Your Librarian
Dear Dariya,
Hi there! I’m here to help!
Let’s start by narrowing your topic. Try asking yourself:
- What specific aspect of mental health are you interested in? (e.g., anxiety, depression, self-esteem)
- What group are you focusing on? (e.g., teenagers, university students, working adults)
- Which platform or behaviour are you studying? (e.g., Instagram use, time spent scrolling, online comparison)
For example, your topic could become:
“How does Instagram use impact self-esteem in female university students?”
Now you're ready to search! I recommend starting with Primo, the library discovery system. It helps you find books on the shelves, electronic resources like electronic articles and eBooks, and more. You may also want to explore the databases: Taylor & Francis Journals, Academic Search Premier, Sage Journals, Project Muse, Gale eBooks, and Cambridge eBooks. They’re great for finding peer-reviewed journal articles and ebooks on social science and mental health topics.
Let me know if you'd like help coming up with keywords or finding example articles; we’re here to help you every step of the way!
And don’t forget, you can book a 1:1 research session with a librarian here.
Hope this helps!
Beyond books,
NURIA
Looking for some advice?
Ask and NURIA will try to respond.
Send your questions via email to library@nu.edu.kz
(Subject: Dear NURIA).
The library will publish at least 1 question per month.
Send your questions via email to library@nu.edu.kz
(Subject: Dear NURIA).
The library will publish at least 1 question per month.
Celebrating Literary Legends
Let’s take a moment to appreciate the remarkable authors who have influenced the world with their powerful words!
Their stories continue to move and motivate readers everywhere. As we celebrate their contributions to literature, it's a perfect time to rediscover their work or even find a new favourite. Join us in honouring these literary legends and their lasting legacy.
Their stories continue to move and motivate readers everywhere. As we celebrate their contributions to literature, it's a perfect time to rediscover their work or even find a new favourite. Join us in honouring these literary legends and their lasting legacy.
Book Recommendations: Summer Reading Picks
We’ve curated a fine selection of summer reads, thoughtfully chosen to suit every kind of summer moment. Whether you're lounging under a sun-drenched sky, listening to the gentle crash of waves at the beach, or enjoying the quiet calm of a cozy evening indoors, these books are the perfect companions. From thrilling adventures and heartwarming tales to contemplative essays and unforgettable characters, our collection offers something for every reader’s mood and imagination.
Summer is a time to slow down, recharge, and rediscover the joy of getting lost in a great story. Let these pages carry you to new places, spark fresh ideas, or simply offer the pleasure of a well-told story.
Summer is a time to slow down, recharge, and rediscover the joy of getting lost in a great story. Let these pages carry you to new places, spark fresh ideas, or simply offer the pleasure of a well-told story.
Explore more recommendations in our online digital collection and find your perfect next read.
Recent Library Events
The Literary Lounge: “My Favourite Author. My Favourite Book”
Facilitated by the PSO Manager, Anara Mendygaliyeva, on April 10, 2025.
The event welcomed students from NUSOM and other Main Campus schools, CPS faculty member Assel Sadykova, and special guest, Kazakh author Zamzagul Tleubayeva.
This time most popular book presentations from event guests were devoted to various international authors and books, such as: Steven Chabowski “When breath becomes air”, Jules Verne “Children of Captain Grant”, Daniel Keyes “Flowers for Algernon”, Ocean Vuong “On Earth We're Briefly Gorgeous”, Peter Wessel Zapffe “The Last Messiah” and others.
The event welcomed students from NUSOM and other Main Campus schools, CPS faculty member Assel Sadykova, and special guest, Kazakh author Zamzagul Tleubayeva.
This time most popular book presentations from event guests were devoted to various international authors and books, such as: Steven Chabowski “When breath becomes air”, Jules Verne “Children of Captain Grant”, Daniel Keyes “Flowers for Algernon”, Ocean Vuong “On Earth We're Briefly Gorgeous”, Peter Wessel Zapffe “The Last Messiah” and others.
And the Star of the book evening became our native Kazakh author, Zamzagul Tleubayeva. Her book «На весах невесомости» is a collection of poems and short stories about her children when they were little kids. Zamzagul is an outstanding woman, the mother of 5 children. One of her children is a special one. In her book, Zamzagul reveals pages of her life and shares her experiences as the mother of a special child.
We sincerely thank everyone who joined us and made this event happen!
We sincerely thank everyone who joined us and made this event happen!
Stress Relief Week
The NU Library, in partnership with the NU Psychology Club, supported all NU students during the critical exam preparation period by hosting Stress Relief Week from April 15 to 17, 2025.
A variety of creative and relaxing activities were offered, including diamond painting kits, DIY jewellery with acrylic beads, origami with colourful paper strips, rock painting, funny owl stone art, magnet kits with acrylic stones, mandala fridge magnets, and others.
This initiative was designed to help students relieve stress, unwind, and tap into their creativity during a demanding academic period. Students were invited to take a break, recharge, and enjoy the experience.
A variety of creative and relaxing activities were offered, including diamond painting kits, DIY jewellery with acrylic beads, origami with colourful paper strips, rock painting, funny owl stone art, magnet kits with acrylic stones, mandala fridge magnets, and others.
This initiative was designed to help students relieve stress, unwind, and tap into their creativity during a demanding academic period. Students were invited to take a break, recharge, and enjoy the experience.
Book Discussion: The Catcher in the Rye by J. D. Salinger
Facilitated by the PSO Manager, Assel Bekturganova, on April 18, 2025.
There was a discussion of The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger. This timeless and thought-provoking novel entails themes of identity, alienation, and the struggle for authenticity. The participants shared their thoughts and reflections on this remarkable work of literature.
Building on the discussion of the work, participants continued to delve into the novel’s enduring relevance, particularly through its complex protagonist, Holden Caulfield.
Many noted how Holden's deep sense of alienation and his critique of the “phoniness” of the adult world resonate strongly with readers of all generations. His raw and candid narrative voice was praised for its authenticity and emotional depth, offering a window into the turbulence of adolescence.
There was a discussion of The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger. This timeless and thought-provoking novel entails themes of identity, alienation, and the struggle for authenticity. The participants shared their thoughts and reflections on this remarkable work of literature.
Building on the discussion of the work, participants continued to delve into the novel’s enduring relevance, particularly through its complex protagonist, Holden Caulfield.
Many noted how Holden's deep sense of alienation and his critique of the “phoniness” of the adult world resonate strongly with readers of all generations. His raw and candid narrative voice was praised for its authenticity and emotional depth, offering a window into the turbulence of adolescence.
Several participants reflected on the symbolic significance of the title, especially Holden’s desire to be the “catcher in the rye” — someone who saves children from falling into the corruption and disappointment of adulthood. This metaphor sparked a thoughtful exchange about the challenges of preserving innocence in a world that often demands conformity.
The discussion ended with the recognition that The Catcher in the Rye remains not only a seminal coming-of-age story, but also a deeply human exploration of fear, loss, and the desire to find one’s place in an often confusing world.
The discussion ended with the recognition that The Catcher in the Rye remains not only a seminal coming-of-age story, but also a deeply human exploration of fear, loss, and the desire to find one’s place in an often confusing world.
Master Mode: Clinical Challenge at NU Library with Elsevier
Facilitated by Aigerim Akparova and Anara Mendygaliyeva (Patron Services Office) on April 30, 2025.
The NU Library was thrilled to host "Master Mode", an interactive clinical game organized in collaboration with Elsevier.
In this exciting team-based challenge, participants paired up to solve three real-world clinical cases using the ClinicalKey database. The game tested students' clinical knowledge and critical thinking abilities, providing a dynamic and educational break from their regular academic routines.
We thank all the teams who participated and brought their best diagnostic and treatment strategies to the table. Special thanks to Elsevier for their partnership and support in making this event a success!
The NU Library was thrilled to host "Master Mode", an interactive clinical game organized in collaboration with Elsevier.
In this exciting team-based challenge, participants paired up to solve three real-world clinical cases using the ClinicalKey database. The game tested students' clinical knowledge and critical thinking abilities, providing a dynamic and educational break from their regular academic routines.
We thank all the teams who participated and brought their best diagnostic and treatment strategies to the table. Special thanks to Elsevier for their partnership and support in making this event a success!
News from Library Staff
Media Spotlight
We’re excited to share that April Manabat, RL, MLIS, Senior Expert Librarian, has recently contributed to the IFLA Academic and Research Libraries Section Blog, a prestigious platform under the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA).
Her insightful post, titled “Introducing Evidence-Based Library and Information Practice for Kazakhstani Librarians: A Humble Attempt,” explores the initial steps taken to promote evidence-based approaches within the library profession in Kazakhstan. Through this contribution, April shares valuable reflections on bridging global best practices with local library development, an important stride toward professional growth and knowledge-sharing in the region.
Read the full blog post on the IFLA website to learn more about this meaningful initiative.
Her insightful post, titled “Introducing Evidence-Based Library and Information Practice for Kazakhstani Librarians: A Humble Attempt,” explores the initial steps taken to promote evidence-based approaches within the library profession in Kazakhstan. Through this contribution, April shares valuable reflections on bridging global best practices with local library development, an important stride toward professional growth and knowledge-sharing in the region.
Read the full blog post on the IFLA website to learn more about this meaningful initiative.
A few days ago, our expert on accessibility, Ziyat Abdykaimov, once again addressed the importance of using respectful and inclusive language when discussing disability. In an exclusive interview for Sector-X Internet Radio, he spoke about how to talk about disability without stigma, why using the correct terms matters, and how each of us can contribute to a more inclusive society through our words and awareness.
Ziyat emphasized that language shapes perception, and inclusive communication is one of the key steps toward breaking down barriers for people with disabilities.
The full interview is available in Russian on YouTube.
Ziyat emphasized that language shapes perception, and inclusive communication is one of the key steps toward breaking down barriers for people with disabilities.
The full interview is available in Russian on YouTube.
Housekeeping
Library Closure During Inventory Period
The Main Library and NUSOM Library will be closed from June 16 to June 20, 2025, for the annual inventory procedure.
During this period, borrowing books and all regular library services will be unavailable.
However, the Circulation Desk at the Main Library (2nd floor) will remain available for book returns.
AskNURIA, ILL, and other online services will remain operational. The 24/7 study spaces in both libraries will remain open.
Stay informed by checking the current schedule on our website.
We apologize for any inconvenience caused and appreciate your understanding. Please plan your visit accordingly.
The Main Library and NUSOM Library will be closed from June 16 to June 20, 2025, for the annual inventory procedure.
During this period, borrowing books and all regular library services will be unavailable.
However, the Circulation Desk at the Main Library (2nd floor) will remain available for book returns.
AskNURIA, ILL, and other online services will remain operational. The 24/7 study spaces in both libraries will remain open.
Stay informed by checking the current schedule on our website.
We apologize for any inconvenience caused and appreciate your understanding. Please plan your visit accordingly.
Follow the NU Library on your preferred social media platform to stay updated on library news, announcements,
upcoming events, book recommendations, and more!
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Subscribe to our YouTube channel
Do you have questions? We are happy to help!
Ask the Librarian at the Library Information Desk (Floors 2 & 3, Block 5E) or chat with our virtual librarian, NURIA.
Ask the Librarian at the Library Information Desk (Floors 2 & 3, Block 5E) or chat with our virtual librarian, NURIA.
Authors of this edition
Let's acknowledge the contributors who made this newsletter possible.
- Darya ZvonarevaHead,
Teaching and Learning Support Office - Zhuldyz OrazymbetovaHead,
Patron Services Office - April ManabatSenior Expert Librarian,
Teaching and Learning Support Office - Monika BukowskaSenior Expert Librarian,
Teaching and Learning Support Office - Lazzat ArystanovaSenior Manager,
Research Support Office - Madina AbdykaimovaSenior Manager,
Patron Services Office - Dina BaiseitManager,
Patron Services Office - Venera NiyazbayevaManager,
E-Resources Management Office
Visual images are sourced from canva.com and the following links:
«ЕСІЛ КӨТЕРІЛІСІ» немесе Мағжан ақын не дейді? - «Ortalyq Qazaqstan» газеті
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0362762/
Federico García Lorca
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Erich_Maria_Remarque
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/George_Orwell
https://liberliber.it/autori/autori-s/antoine-de-saint-exupery/
https://www.shutterstock.com/image-vector/closed-inventory-on-door-sign-600nw-2329162575.jpg
«ЕСІЛ КӨТЕРІЛІСІ» немесе Мағжан ақын не дейді? - «Ortalyq Qazaqstan» газеті
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0362762/
Federico García Lorca
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Erich_Maria_Remarque
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/George_Orwell
https://liberliber.it/autori/autori-s/antoine-de-saint-exupery/
https://www.shutterstock.com/image-vector/closed-inventory-on-door-sign-600nw-2329162575.jpg
