tonneten library :: syndication

tonneten.net presents ideas for using RSS (& Atom etc.) and reader services in libraries. It offers a range of current and proposed uses, especially for using syndicated content in special libraries, and is seeking ways to increase uptake in Australian libraries.

Please feel free to leave comments and suggestions. They're always appreciated, and I'll endeavour to get back to you promptly.

Over the second half of 2004, the site has been part of an academic project at UTS. The project rationale discusses how well libraries and RSS fit together, and the findings show why libraries should start using syndication technologies now. A bibliography is also included.

• What is RSS?
• What can you use it for?
• What are the benefits for typical users?
• What are the benefits for special libraries?
• How can RSS assist with 'informaion overload'?

There are over 1,000 special libraries in Australia. I've put togehter a list of some from Libdex, and suggested how some of those with better online reader services could better harness the potential of RSS.

• Should you use RSS yourself?
• Would your library's patrons stand to benefit?
• Examples of the opportunities for librarians and patrons are discussed

Several tools for making use of syndication technologies in libraries are also examined:

• FOAF'd!
• Fagan Finder
• Feedfire
• quickSub
• del.icio.us

Thanks for visiting. I look forward to your feedback.
Drew

RSS is beginning to become a part of the library environment.

This toolkit was published recently by the Ontario Library and Information Technology Association (OLITA)

A few articles out recently have been extolling the virtues and benefits of RSS for libraries. I briefly discuss Delivering the News with Blogs: The Georgia State University Library Experience and a review of Weblogs and Libraries. I hope to get to Service Autodiscovery for Rapid Information Movement soon.