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Students like to get resources they want quickly and easily.  A Talis Aspire reading list provides an online list of resources, with links to library resources or the full text of an article or webpage.  All the resources for a module can be on a Talis list, in one place for easy access. 

Five steps to creating a reading list

  1. Log in to reading lists: go to http://lists.library.lincoln.ac.uk and enter your university email address and password
  2. Add the 'Bookmark button' to your browser: click on the 'My bookmarks' tab and then 'Install bookmark button'.  Follow the instructions on the screen to add the link to your bookmarks bar. 
  3. Create a reading list: click on 'My Lists' and then the 'Create new list' button. Enter the module name and code, and select the time period to get started.
  4. Add an item to your reading list: search the library website (or Amazon if it is not in the library's collection).  From the item record click on the 'Add to my Bookmarks' button (see #2). 
  5. Submit your reading list for review: click on the 'Request review' button. We'll check the links and make sure the list appears in Blackboard.

Webinar on using Talis Aspire

Using Talis Aspire to empower your reading list in a blended learning environment

Click on the image to watch how to create an online reading list:

Demonstration on how to getting started creating an online reading list

Tips for working with reading lists

To create a really effective reading list try some of our tips:

  • Structure your reading list

    Create sections rather than having one long list. Students value lists that reflect the structure of their modules and sections can help with their organisation and time management.

    Sections can be:

    • Weekly - e.g. weeks 1, 2 etc. (not dates)
    • Subject or topic areas

    A structured list will make it easier to link your list to your weekly readings on Blackboard. Embedded reading can aid students' preparation, understanding and revision.

  • Select reading options

    A reading option category is available for every item you add to your reading list:

    • Recommended for student purchase
    • Essential reading
    • Recommended reading
    • Further reading

    Reading options can help students choose what they need to read and indicate further reading around a topic. Reading options can also help us decide how many copies we may need to purchase.

  • Check your reading list analytics

    You can view statistics for any resources on your reading list. The analytics tool shows you how many times students have looked at individual resources. This information can help you to review and edit the resources on your list. You can access it by clicking on 'View and Export' and selecting 'Analytics'.

  • Review your reading list

    Reading lists do not automatically update with new editions so it is important that any published lists are regularly reviewed. Whenever you make a change to your reading list you'll need to send the list for review. Changes will not be visible until the list has been reviewed and published by your Academic Subject Librarian so please allow time for this.

What happens when a list is sent for review?

​When a list is sent for review we:

  • check that the items on the reading list are available in the library (either in print or electronically)
  • ensure that the full text links (for ebooks and journal articles) are working 
  • publish the list
  • link the reading list to the relevant Blackboard module site.