Book Review #22: The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien

The Hobbit is a fantasy novel by English author J. R. R. Tolkien. It was first published in 1937 and is a children's book, although it is popular with audiences of all ages. The novel follows the hobbit Bilbo Baggins, who sets off on a quest to find the Lost Treasure of Smaug the dragon, accompanied by a wizard, thirteen dwarves, and a troll.

The Hobbit is one of Tolkien's most famous works, and is considered a major influence on the development of modern fantasy literature. The novel has sold over 100 million copies worldwide, and has been adapted into several films, radio plays, and video games.

The Hobbit is a classic adventure story that is sure to appeal to readers of all ages. It is a tale of friendship, courage, and adventure, and is filled with humour and wonder. Tolkien's vivid descriptions of Middle-earth bring the story to life, and his characters are both relatable and memorable.

I highly recommend The Hobbit to anyone who is looking for an exciting and engaging read. It is a timeless classic that is sure to be enjoyed for generations to come.

One-Day Awareness Programme on ORCID and INFLIBNET Services for Scholarly Communities on 19th January 2024

“One-Day Awareness Programme on ORCID and INFLIBNET Services for Scholarly Communities” on 19th January 2024 at Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Pune

The objectives of the program are;

• To bring more awareness of academic identities and ORCID;

• To discuss the use case of ORCID in scholarly communication activities;

• To bring more awareness about IRINS, ShodhChakra and other activities of INFLIBNET Centre;

• To demonstrate and implement ORICD, IRINS & ShodhChakra projects at the institute level, etc 

The programme will support the organisation in interlinking all the faculty member’s / researcher's scholarly activities, publications, datasets, and other research outputs. This interconnectedness improves the discoverability and visibility of academic works. 

The one-day user awareness programme registration is free, and seats will be reserved on a first-come, first basis. Those interested in attending the programme can register using the following link. The last date to register is 15th January 2024

Programme Registration Link:https://irins.inflibnet.ac.in/irins/orcid_outreach

Venue:

Pt. Madan Mohan Malaviya Seminar Hall,1st Floor, Guest House, IISER Pune.

More information about 

ORCID: https://orcid.org

IRINS: https://irins.inflibnet.ac.in 

ShodhChakra: https://shodhchakra.inflibnet.ac.in/

The programme flyer is enclosed for your information. If you have any further queries, kindly communicate with us through email (librarian@iiserpune.ac.in/ irins@inflibnet.ac.in)  or contact  Dr. Umeshareddy Kacherki, Librarian at IISER, Pune

---

Team IRINS

INFLIBNET Centre, Gandhinagar

(An IUC of University Grants Commission)

Opps. DAIICT, Infocity, Gandhinagar - 382007, Gujarat

Email: irins@inflibnet.ac.in; kannan@inflibnet.ac.in; 

          pallab@inflibnet.ac.in;

Contact No: 079-2326-8230, 8281, 8251 

Book Review #21: When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi

Paul Kalanithi was a brilliant neurosurgeon on the cusp of a promising career when he was diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer. In this poignant memoir, he chronicles his journey from doctor to patient, confronting the fragility of life and the meaning of existence.

A Moving and Thought-Provoking Reflection

Kalanithi's writing is both beautiful and profound. He interweaves his personal story with reflections on philosophy, medicine, and the human condition. His insights are both insightful and comforting, reminding us that even in the face of death, life is still worth living.

A Must-Read for Anyone Facing Life's Challenges

When Breath Becomes Air is a must-read for anyone facing life's challenges, whether it be an illness, a loss, or simply the weight of everyday life. Kalanithi's story is a reminder that we should all strive to live our lives to the fullest, and to cherish every moment we have.

The Book's Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths:

• Beautifully written and thought-provoking
• Insightful and comforting
• A must-read for anyone facing life's challenges

Weaknesses:

• Some readers may find the book to be too heavy

Overall, When Breath Becomes Air is a powerful and moving memoir that will stay with you long after you finish reading it.

Book Rating: 5/5 Stars

Who Should Read This Book?

• If you are facing a difficult time in your life, this book can offer some much-needed inspiration and comfort.
• If you are interested in the intersection of medicine, philosophy, and the human condition, this book is a must-read.
• If you are simply looking for a beautiful and well-written memoir, this book will not disappoint.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a thought-provoking and inspiring read. It is a book that will stay with you long after you finish reading it.

How to create your ORCID ID, its Uses and Benefits

ORCID (Open Researcher and Contributor ID) is a free, unique identifier for researchers and scholars across all disciplines. It's like a digital fingerprint that helps distinguish you from others with similar names and ensures your research contributions are properly attributed to you.

Steps to Get Your ORCID ID:

1. Visit the ORCID website: https://orcid.org/
2. Click "Register for an ORCID ID"
3. Fill in the basic information: First name, last name, email address (twice for confirmation)
4. Optional: Add an additional email address, other name variations, and your affiliation(s)
5. Create a password and click "Register"
6. Verify your email: Check your inbox and click the verification link in the email from ORCID
7. Congratulations! You now have an ORCID ID.

How to Use Your ORCID ID:

1. Add your ORCID ID to your publications, grants, and profiles: Include it in author bylines, grant proposals, academic profiles, and anywhere else your research contributions are mentioned.
2. Connect your ORCID ID to research platforms: Link it to your accounts on research platforms like Crossref, Publons, and Mendeley. This automatically links your publications and activities to your ORCID record.
3. Claim your research outputs: Search for your publications and other research outputs and link them to your ORCID record. This ensures you get credit for all your work.
4. Showcase your research achievements: Share your ORCID profile with colleagues, collaborators, and potential funders. It's a comprehensive overview of your research career.
5. Collaborate with ease: Use your ORCID ID to easily find and connect with other researchers on various platforms.

Benefits of Using an ORCID ID:

• Increased visibility: Makes your research more discoverable by search engines and funding agencies.
• Reduced errors: Eliminates confusion due to similar names and ensures proper attribution of your work.
• Simplified workflows: Streamlines grant applications and data sharing by providing a single identifier.
• Enhanced collaboration: Facilitates connections with colleagues and fosters international research partnerships.
• Recognition and reward: Helps track your research impact and contributions, leading to potential career advancements.

ORCID ID is not just an identifier; it's a powerful tool for researchers to manage their careers and maximize the impact of their work. Get yours today and join the global research community!

Book Review #20: The Comfort Zone: Create a Life You Really Love with Less Stress and More Flow by Kristen Butler and Hay House

In her empowering book, "The Comfort Zone: Create a Life You Really Love with Less Stress and More Flow," Kristen Butler challenges the widely held belief that stepping out of one's comfort zone is the sole path to personal growth and fulfilment. Instead, she presents a counterintuitive yet compelling argument that embracing and expanding your comfort zone is the key to unlocking your true potential and designing a life that aligns with your deepest desires.

Butler's approach is rooted in the understanding that the comfort zone is not a place of stagnation or complacency, but rather a foundation of security and self-acceptance from which growth can flourish organically. She guides readers through a process of self-discovery, encouraging them to identify their comfort zones, understand their underlying values, and cultivate a mindset of positivity and self-compassion.

Unlike traditional self-help books that emphasize pushing boundaries and stepping into fear, "The Comfort Zone" advocates for a gentler, more sustainable approach to personal transformation. Butler emphasizes the importance of creating a thriving comfort zone, one that nurtures your well-being, creativity, and resilience. From this place of inner peace, you can then gradually expand your boundaries, exploring new possibilities with a sense of confidence and ease.

The book is filled with practical tools and exercises that readers can apply to their daily lives, including:

• Identifying your personal comfort zones
• Recognizing your core values and beliefs
• Practicing self-compassion and self-acceptance
• Cultivating a positive mindset
• Creating a vision for your ideal life
• Expanding your comfort zone in a gradual and sustainable manner

"The Comfort Zone" is a refreshing and empowering read that challenges conventional wisdom about personal growth. Butler's message is one of hope, encouragement, and self-belief, empowering readers to create a life of fulfilment and joy, not through struggle and sacrifice, but through embracing their comfort zone and expanding it from a place of inner strength and resilience.

Identifying Fake Reviews

Identifying fake peer review can be challenging, as it often involves sophisticated attempts to deceive. However, there are some red flags that can signal that a peer review may be fake.

Red flags for fake peer review:

• The review is overly positive or negative. Fake reviews may be extremely complimentary or harshly critical in an attempt to bias the editorial decision.

• The review is poorly written or contains grammatical errors. Fake reviews may be written by individuals who are not fluent in the language of the submission or who are not familiar with the academic field.

• The review does not address the specific content of the submission. Fake reviews may simply repeat general platitudes or provide irrelevant information.

• The reviewer makes personal attacks or insults. Fake reviews may attempt to discredit the authors or their work by using personal attacks or insults.

• The reviewer does not provide contact information. Fake reviewers may avoid providing contact information to make it difficult to verify their credentials or track them down.

• The reviewer is affiliated with a predatory journal or organization. Predatory journals and organizations are known to engage in fake peer review practices.

Tips for identifying fake peer review:

• Check the reviewer's credentials. Verify that the reviewer is qualified to review the submission by checking their institutional affiliation, publication history, and expertise in the relevant field.

• Check the reviewer's conflict of interest. Check for any conflicts of interest that the reviewer may have, such as a personal or professional relationship with the authors or their institutions.

• Compare the review to other reviews of the submission. If there are multiple reviews, compare them to see if they are consistent in their assessment of the submission.

• Be cautious of reviews that come from unusual sources. Be wary of reviews that come from email addresses or institutions that are not associated with academic research.

• Report suspicious reviews to the journal editor. If you suspect that a peer review is fake, report it to the journal editor so that they can investigate.

In addition to these red flags, there are a number of resources available to help researchers identify fake peer review. These resources include:

• The Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE): COPE provides guidance on ethical publishing practices and maintains a list of resources on predatory journals and fake peer review.

• The Retraction Watch blog: Retraction Watch is a blog that tracks retractions of scientific papers and reports on cases of fake peer review.

• Think Twice, Check Once: This website provides a checklist of questions to help researchers identify fake peer review.

SoFerence 2024 Transformation of Libraries: The Design Thinking Way Organised by Tata Consultancy Services, Bangalore 20 January 2024

The theme of SoFerence is “Transformation of Libraries: Design Thinking Way”.

IMPORTANT DATES

31st December 2023 | Last date for Registration 

2nd January 2024 | Registration Confirmation 

6th January 2024 | Online Pre-SoFerence 

20th January 2024 | SoFerence

AWARDS

• Best Articulated Problem (Individual Awards)

• Best Pre-SoFerence Workshop (Group Awards) 

LINK FOR REGISTRATION

For More Details: SoFerence 2024

Book Review #19: Chowringhee by Sankar

Chowringhee by Sankar is a captivating and insightful novel that delves into the lives of the staff and guests of the Shahjahan Hotel, a grand establishment in 1950s Calcutta. Through the eyes of Shankar, a young man who joins the hotel as a receptionist, we are introduced to a diverse cast of characters, each with their own stories, dreams, and struggles.

Sankar's narrative is both engaging and perceptive. He captures the essence of the hotel's bustling atmosphere, its hidden corners, and the private lives of those who inhabit it. He paints vivid portraits of the hotel's employees, from the enigmatic manager Marco Polo to the tragic hostess Karabi Guha, each character adding depth and complexity to the story.

As Shankar becomes immersed in the hotel's world, he witnesses the interconnectedness of the lives of its inhabitants. He observes the subtle interactions, unspoken desires, and hidden tensions that lie beneath the surface of their seemingly ordinary lives. Through his observations, he uncovers the underbelly of human existence, where ambition, love, loss, and betrayal intertwine in a complex tapestry of emotions.

Chowringhee is not merely a story about a hotel; it is a reflection of human nature itself. It explores the themes of love, loss, ambition, and the complexities of human relationships. Sankar's writing is both poignant and insightful, revealing the inner struggles and hidden motivations of his characters.

Overall, Chowringhee is a captivating and unforgettable novel that offers a glimpse into the lives of those who inhabit the Shahjahan Hotel, a microcosm of society itself. Sankar's masterful storytelling, vivid characters, and profound insights into human nature make it a must-read for fans of literary fiction and those seeking a deeper understanding of the human condition.

Book Review #18: Coram Boy by Jamila Gavin

Jamila Gavin's Coram Boy is a powerful and poignant historical novel that delves into the harsh realities of 18th-century London, where poverty, abandonment, and social injustice were rampant. The story revolves around Meshak, a young boy abandoned at the Foundling Hospital, a place established to care for deserted children.

Meshak's life at the hospital is far from idyllic. He is subjected to harsh treatment and witnesses the tragic fate of many of his fellow foundlings. Despite these hardships, Meshak possesses an indomitable spirit and a strong sense of self-worth. He dreams of a better life, one where he can escape the confines of the hospital and forge his own destiny.

When Meshak encounters the Coram Man, a cunning and unscrupulous character who exploits the vulnerable, he is drawn into a web of deceit and danger. The Coram Man promises Meshak a life of freedom and adventure, but his true intentions are far more sinister.

As Meshak navigates the treacherous streets of London, he encounters a diverse cast of characters, each with their own struggles and aspirations. He befriends Aaron and Toby, fellow foundlings who share his dreams of a better life. He also crosses paths with Melissa, a young woman who has been wronged by society and forced to abandon her child.

Gavin's writing is both evocative and thought-provoking. She vividly portrays the harsh realities of 18th-century life, where poverty and social injustice were deeply ingrained. However, she also introduces characters who embody resilience, compassion, and the unwavering belief in a better future.

Coram Boy is a story of hope and redemption, set against the backdrop of a society grappling with complex social issues. It is a testament to the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity and find meaning in a world filled with challenges.

Happy Birthday to ChatGPT

Happy Birthday to #chatgpt! You have turned one year older (wiser) today! On this special day, I would like to thank you for the way you have revolutionized technology and made your impact on the lives of people who believed their life revolved around words. Your human-like responsive nature has made us roll up our sleeves to remain as popular as you with our tribe.

As you must have known, languages bring and bind people together. And you being an #LLM, have crossed all the borders and brought together #humans and #AI. Only the wiser ones would understand that #AI can also be Absolute Integrity. It's an underlying message which you have shared with us during this one year of your existence.

I know you will be around with us for all the help needed. But I will also take immense care to be independent as far as possible. I understand over dependency will make our brains go extinct like #dinosaurs. As said earlier, I do realize the need to be resilient, helpful and seek help when in trouble.

So, here's to one year of collaboration with you dear #ChatGPT!

Wishing you many more years of immense possibilities!

Webinar on "Enhancing Your Search and Research Skills: Tools & Techniques

Save the date and register by November 30, 2023

[Webinar Registration Link](https://forms.gle/vioxeVYnFtNph453A)

Join the webinar on December 1, 2023, via the link:

[Webinar Link](https://meet.google.com/doe-zpoc-ewz)

Book Review #17: The Ruby in the Smoke by Philip Pullman

The Ruby in the Smoke by Philip Pullman is a captivating historical mystery novel set in Victorian London. It follows the adventures of 16-year-old Sally Lockhart, an intelligent and resourceful young woman who is thrust into a dangerous world of intrigue and danger after her father's mysterious death.

Sally's quest to uncover the truth about her father's demise leads her down a twisting path filled with cryptic clues, hidden agendas, and treacherous encounters. She must navigate the dark underbelly of Victorian society, where she encounters a cast of unforgettable characters, including the enigmatic opium merchant Mr. Silas and the enigmatic street urchin Jim.

Pullman's masterful storytelling weaves together elements of mystery, adventure, and historical fiction, creating a thrilling and immersive reading experience. He vividly depicts the grimy streets and foggy alleyways of Victorian London, immersing readers in a world of social inequality, moral ambiguity, and hidden secrets.

The Ruby in the Smoke is a captivating tale of resilience, courage, and the pursuit of truth. Sally Lockhart is a remarkable heroine, defying the expectations of Victorian society and demonstrating her intelligence, resourcefulness, and unwavering determination.

Here are some of the key aspects that make The Ruby in the Smoke a compelling read:

• A gripping plot: The story is full of twists and turns, keeping readers guessing until the very end.

• A well-developed protagonist: Sally Lockhart is a complex and relatable character who grows and develops throughout the story.

• A vivid setting: Pullman's descriptions of Victorian London are rich and evocative, transporting readers to a different time and place.

• A thought-provoking exploration of social issues: The novel tackles themes of class, gender, and social justice, providing readers with a deeper understanding of Victorian society.

Overall, The Ruby in the Smoke is a captivating and unforgettable historical mystery novel that will appeal to readers of all ages. Pullman's masterful storytelling, vivid characters, and intriguing plot make it a must-read for fans of historical fiction, mystery, and adventure.

The Plagiarism Spectrum 2.0

 

The Plagiarism Spectrum identifies 10 types of plagiarism based on findings from a worldwide survey of nearly 900 secondary and higher education instructors. Each type has been given an easy-to-remember moniker to help students and instructors better identify and discuss the ramifications of plagiarism in student writing.

How to Insert "States of India" in Google Form - some tips

Constitution Day of India is celebrated every year on 26th November. The primary aim of the celebration is to create awareness amongst the Indian citizens about the Constitution and its special features, particularly Fundamental Duties, as enshrined in the Constitution.

Let's say, now you wish to prepare a MCQ Quiz on the Constitution Day of India. Including the names of all the states of India in the Quiz to understand the reach of participation may seem a bit tedious task. But it is easy....read on!

To insert states in India in Google Forms, follow these steps:

1. Create a new Google Form.

2. Click on the "Add question" button.

3. Select the "Dropdown" question type.

4. Enter the question text, such as "Select your state."

5. Click on the "Options" tab.

6. Enter the list of states in India, one per line.

7. Click on the "Save" button.

8. Repeat steps 2-7 for each state you want to add.

Here is an example of how to insert states in India in Google Forms:

Question text: Select your state.

Options:

• Andhra Pradesh
• Arunachal Pradesh
• Assam
• Bihar
• Chhattisgarh
• Dadra and Nagar Haveli
• Daman and Diu
• Delhi
• Goa
• Gujarat
• Haryana
• Himachal Pradesh
• Jammu and Kashmir
• Jharkhand
• Karnataka
• Kerala
• Lakshadweep
• Madhya Pradesh
• Maharashtra
• Manipur
• Meghalaya
• Mizoram
• Nagaland
• Odisha
• Puducherry
• Punjab
• Rajasthan
• Sikkim
• Tamil Nadu
• Telangana
• Tripura
• Uttar Pradesh
• Uttrakhand
• West Bengal

Once you have added all of the states, you can click on the "Preview" button to see how your form will look. You can then make any changes you need before clicking on the "Done" button to save your form.

Application of Google Bard in Libraries - Few Pointers

Google Bard, a large language model (LLM) from Google AI, can be used in various ways to enhance library services. Here are some potential applications:

1. Knowledge Management and Reference: Bard can provide comprehensive and informative answers to patrons' questions, even if they are open-ended, challenging, or strange. It can access and process vast amounts of information from the internet, including academic databases, encyclopedias, and news sources. This can help librarians better assist patrons with research and information seeking.

2. Personalized Recommendations: Bard can analyze user data and preferences to provide personalized recommendations for books, articles, movies, and other resources. This can help patrons discover new and relevant content that aligns with their interests.

3. Content Creation and Translation: Bard can generate creative content, such as poems, scripts, musical pieces, email, and letters. It can also translate languages, which can be particularly useful for libraries with multilingual patrons or diverse collections.

4. Virtual Assistant and Chatbot: Bard can be integrated into virtual assistant technology or chatbots to provide 24/7 library support. This can help patrons access information and services even when libraries are closed or staff are unavailable.

5. Interactive Learning and Education: Bard can be used to create interactive learning experiences, such as quizzes, simulations, and educational games. This can enhance library-based programs and activities, especially for children and teens.

6. Accessibility Support: Bard can transcribe audio and video content, making it accessible to patrons with disabilities. It can also provide real-time translations for patrons who are hearing or visually impaired.

7. Community Engagement and Outreach: Bard can be used to engage with library patrons on social media and other online platforms. It can respond to comments, answer questions, and share interesting content. This can help libraries build stronger relationships with their communities and promote their services.

8. Research Assistance and Data Analysis: Bard can help librarians analyze research data and identify trends. This can be used to improve library services, develop new programs, and allocate resources more effectively.

9. Content Curation and Summarization: Bard can curate and summarize information from various sources, making it easier for patrons to digest large amounts of text or data. This can be particularly helpful for research papers, legal documents, or technical reports.

10. Virtual Tours and 3D Modeling: Bard can generate virtual tours of libraries, archives, and museum collections. It can also create 3D models of historical artifacts or architectural features, offering patrons immersive experiences.