RSS

The task in Module 2 is to write 350 words regarding how RSS can “enhance a library or information service’s ability to meet the information needs of its users.” 

OK, to be perfectly honest I have never used RSS before and have had just a brief explore using the links listed, plus a few Queensland libraries.  So what I say is very inexperienced.  And I have not yet found 2 more examples of RSS in action – I will add those when I find them.

What immediately springs to mind is the immediacy and the current-ness of the information.  One feed was the opening hours of the ANU library – great for students.  Many were about events at libraries- great for a quick check.

How does this help the libraries?  Well it certainly increases their profile.  They are there, right at your digital fingertips, and here is what they are offering today.  The alternative is for the user to have to have the need and drive to go through a different avenue and instantly there are a number of barriers the user has to be committed to overcome:

• Call - but then only in business hours. 
• Email – but then have to wait for a reply.
• Check the website – but then you have to search through pages until you find what you want.

If the user doesn't want to go through the steps or doesn't want the information that badly, odds on they will give up.

RSS has the advantage of delivering straight to the user exactly what they want, and keeps the library in the forefront of the user’s mind.  The user has done the filtering and created their own link with the library.