RSS feeds

RSS feeds are great!

http://www.bloggingtutors.com/2010/04/free-rss-feed-icons-for-your.html

Another very useful Web 2.0 technology is RSS (Really Simple Syndication) feeds. RSS feeds are those buttons (normally orange, but not restricted to colour) located on webpages. If a user finds a online resource that appeals to him/she, the user can easily subscribe to the particular website.  By selecting the RSS icon, the user can then select the 'Subscribe' button. The feed will automatically be placed in either the user's Outlook (email) or suggested folder. To be able to subscribe to RSS feeds, users need to install a reader, such as 'Google Reader'. The users would also be able to copy RSS links into their Blog by means of the RSS gadget.

http://www.problogdesign.com/resources/50-more-free-rss-feed-icons/

Now, what does this all mean to libraries? This is great news! Libraries would be able to subscribe to the latest news sites, current and new book releases, best sellers, authors' information, news and special events, library news and latest technologies. The great thing about RSS feeds, the user don't have to seek for current information, the information comes to the user. In other words, libraries would be able to view all their preferred feeds on their website. Also, RSS feeds would not only benefit libraries, but also the library patrons. Patrons would be able to read all current and relevant library information. If libraries subscribe to local community websites, this will also benefit users to find out what is happening in their community. So then, everybody will be updated and be informed!