⇒ RSS in Plain English by Common Craft
RSS, or Really Simple Syndication, is a way to keep current on websites that have frequently updated content. You can read or watch this video to learn more. RSS feeds are available for news sites including specific sections such as breaking news or strange news (e.g. Reuters, The Associated Press and The Chronicle of Higher Education). In general, just look for the orange RSS symbol, as seen above, and click on it for the feed URL you can paste into the "Add Feeds" section of your feed reader.
What about my research?
The latest developments in RSS include academic databases that allow users to create RSS feeds for specific searches. For example, in EBSCO databases, when you are finished with your search, look for the orange symbol and "Create alert for this search." A pop-up window will provide you with the "Syndication feed" URL that you can copy and paste into your feed reader. Many databases now include this feature, check to see if your favorite database offers RSS feeds. Here are a few to get you started: ScienceDirect, Academic OneFile and ProQuest Digital Dissertations. Keep in mind that once you set up a search alert, your aggregator will only show *new* articles that have been added to the database. If you are having trouble, Ask a Librarian.
In order to utilize RSS you'll need an RSS feed reader, also commonly called an aggregator. The Ultimate RSS Toolbox lists over 100 different readers for different types of users. You may also be interested in reading your feeds on a cell phone or you can set up RSS feeds to come into your email box. Common readers include Bloglines and Google Reader. Once you choose the one to suit your needs, start adding feeds. Here's a few to get you started: Wired News, Slashdot, Quotes of the Day and Lifehacker.
University LibraryFor comments on this page contact: Learnlib
Last modified by: Merinda Hensley on 9/8/08
