How to bring the blog to you (Part 1): Using RSS feeds

RSS stands for Really Simple Syndication. It provides a way for readers to catch-up on blog posts without actually having to visit the blog. Basically, RSS is the method by which website updates are delivered to a blog reader or aggregator. It is also referred to as the “site feed," and is actually made up of a messy combination of text and XML code itself.

Here is how you can get RSS to work for you. First, choose the method by which you want to read the blog posts, such as a favorite aggregator or reader. A RSS reader will convert the site feed into a clean version of the text, without the code; an aggregator will convert the feed and allow you to collect many different feeds in one place. A lot of people have found the Bloglines and Pluck aggregators easy to use; Yahoo users could include the site feed on their personalized page, too.

Once you have chosen a RSS reader or aggregator, locate the section on this blog labeled “Site Feeds,” in the right-hand column. Then, just click on the appropriate button to set-up your subscription. If you don’t see your preferred aggregator or reader listed, use the generic atom feed to subscribe.

Now, you are ready to go! Every post to this blog should appear in your reader or aggregator. Feel free to check back here to leave comments or just read the posts, as well.

If you need more help setting up your RSS feed, you may want to check out the more in-depth Getting Started with RSS tutorial, which includes graphics, or the related FAQ page. Also, feel free to contact Stacy or leave a comment for more information.

Many regularly updated websites provide RSS feeds of their content, which gives the reader a quick and easy way to see what’s new. For example, you may find that your favorite online newspaper has a RSS site feed for new articles. Also, several of the University Libraries’ databases provide RSS feeds for new material related to keyword-searches and journals. (Just let Stacy know if you need help setting these up.) The University Libraries and Ball State offer several other blogs and RSS feeds. By using RSS feeds you can stay up-to-date on this blog as well as other sources of regularly updated information, including the latest scholarship in your field.

Next time, we will cover how to get blog posts delivered to your email inbox.