Many libraries that otherwise do not have much of a Web 2.0 presence use RSS feeds on their site (Lin, 2008). They are relatively easy to install on a website, have cross-functionality with a variety of different aggregator programs, and can keep patrons informed on topics of interest. Libraries have used RSS feeds on their websites to keep patrons informed about new collection items, services, and items in subscription databases (Maness, 2006).
However, although in theory RSS could be a great asset to libraries, in practice many patrons have not taken advantage of what it has to offer. Thus, Library and Information Science professionals have mainly used the tool to subscribe to LIS-related blogs (Holvoet, 2006), thereby increasing their own professional knowledge but not necessarily that of the people they serve. The best way to bring RSS's advantages to library patrons, particularly for academic libraries, is to follow the example of the Karolinska Instituet and create an individualized page for patrons that aggregates all the information they choose to put on it (Maness, 2006). For those who need to keep abreast of new developments in rapidly changing fields, such as science and technology, this is truly an invaluable asset.
Another roadblock to optimization of RSS use for libraries is a simple lack of training in the medium. LibGuides such as the one created at MIT are helpful for academic patrons, but it is worth the effort to either create similar guides or provide training sessions and tutorials for interested public library users as well. Libraries which maintain or aggregate blogs on their websites might also consider adding RSS feeds to them, as this would broaden patrons' ability to comment on, and by extension participate further in, the Web 2.0 process. Relevant websites and trusted information sources could also benefit from libraries using them in an RSS context (Holvoet, 2006).
Libraries and librarians have already succeeded in finding the utility for RSS in expanding their own professional horizons. The challenge that lies ahead for them is now finding a way to expand RSS usage so that patrons are comfortable with its use, knowledgeable about how to optimize it, and have a dedicated, personalized space - preferably via a library - in which they can use the aggregated information to their best advantage.
References
Holvoet, K. (2006). What is RSS and how can libraries use it to improve patron service? Library Hi Tech News Incorporating Online and CD Notes, 23(8), 32-33.
Linh, N. C. (2008). A survey of the application of web 2.0 in Australasian university libraries. Library Hi Tech, 26(4), 630-653.
Maness, J. M. (2006). Library 2.0 theory: Web 2.0 and its implications for libraries. Webology, 3(2), 2006. Retrieved from http://www.webology.ir/2006/v3n2/a25.html
I like the idea from the Karolinska Instituet of creating a personal page for patrons and letting them choose the information that appears on it. At the public library where I work, I have never heard of any effort to educate, train or inform the public about RSS. Additionally, I wonder how many active librarians know about the advantages of RSS?
ReplyDeleteHi Leah,
ReplyDeleteYou have mentioned a very good point here which I totally agree with, there is no doubt that basically all types of libraries can benefit from adding RSS feeds in their website, but particularly the academic libraries can offer much better services to the users if they can provide a wide number of feeds on a variety of topics that can interest the students and faculty. Only thing is that users will have to be aware and trained on how to take advantage of this great tool, so I wonder who does this responsibility falls onto, to educate the patrons on this web 2.0 tool. Is it the libraries since they are the ones offering it, or the institution itself?
Ananya, my current internship at King Library actually speaks to that question. Professors request instructional sessions with the librarian for their department or subject, who then instructs the students in how to use the resources available to them from the library website (in this case, the subject LibGuides). Given a reasonably proficient librarian, I'm sure similar sessions could be set up for instruction in RSS.
ReplyDelete