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Frequently Asked Questions

RSS Q & A

UWS Library RSS Frequently Asked Questions.

  • What is RSS?

  • What is a feed?

  • Why use RSS?

  • What is an aggregator?

  • What feeds are available from the Library?

  • How do I add a feed?

  • How do I add a Library Feed to WIZZ RSS?

  • How do I add a Library Feed to RSSReader?




    • UWS Library RSS Frequently Asked Questions.

    Q: What is RSS?

    A: RSS is a great way to stay up to date with the Library. There are a few definitions of what RSS stands for - one is Really Simple Syndication, and two others are Rich Site Summary and RDF Site Summary. RSS makes use of an XML code that constantly scans the content of a website for updates and then broadcasts those updates to all subscribers through a feed.

    Q: What is a feed?

    A: RSS feeds are typically used with news sites or blogs, although any website can use them to disseminate information. When an update is sent out, it includes a headline and a small amount of text, either a summary or the lead-in to the larger story. You will need to click a link to read more.

    Q: Why use RSS?

    A: Perhaps you already receive information on website updates through some sort of e-mail newsletter. RSS feeds are preferable to newsletter updates because they are instantaneous; you don't have to wait until a designated day of the week to receive your summary. They will also never be held up by a spam filter.

    Q: What is an aggregator?

    A: In order to receive RSS feeds, you must have an aggregator, a feed reader. There are a number of aggregators online, many of them free, so with a little bit of searching, you should be able to find an interface that appeals to you. In addition to being available on your computer, RSS feeds can also be read on PDAs and cell phones.
    Examples of some aggregators are available at http://library.uws.edu.au/downloads.php

    Q: What feeds are available from the Library?

    A: We currently maintain 2 feeds:
    1. Latest news
    2. New books list


    Q: How do I add a feed?

    A: When you come across a website that you would like to add to your aggregator, you can do so in one of two ways. Most sites that offer an RSS feed have an "RSS" or "XML" button on their site that you can click on and it will instantly add that feed to your aggregator. Depending on your aggregator, you may instead need to copy and paste the URL of the feed into the program.

    Q: How do I add a Library Feed to WIZZ RSS?

    A: Click here for detailed information.

    Q: How do I add a Library Feed to RSSReader?

    A: Click here for detailed information