What's a blog and how do I subscribe?

I've had a few people ask me, "Exactly what IS a blog and how do I subscribe?"

"A blog is a web page made up of usually short, frequently updated posts that are arranged chronologically — like a what's new page or a journal. The content and purposes of blogs varies greatly — from links and commentary about other web sites, to news about a company/person/idea, to diaries, photos, poetry, mini-essays, project updates, even fiction.
Blog posts are like instant messages to the web." -- from www.blogger.com.

The Library will use its blog to post news and information about the library, as well as all sorts of other fun things such as recommended reading lists, lists of recently ordered books and movies, upcoming programs, author signings, and more.

You can check the blog every day to see what's new, or you can take advantage of one of the many free RSS newsreaders that will automatically check it for you and give you the results in a simple, easy-to-use format.

Getting an RSS newsreader is easy. There are online readers and installable desktop readers. Whichever type you choose, you will find that it's easy to keep up with your favorite websites by subscribing to their RSS feeds via your newsreader. There are numerous free newsreaders to choose from.

To subscribe to the Library's blog and RSS feed, simply add a feed in your newsreader and enter the following as the location or address of the feed: http://hendlib.blogspot.com/atom.xml. Your newsreader will visit this address and download any new postings automatically.

Isn't this fun and easy? Many, many websites are using RSS feeds (also known as XML feeds) to disseminate information more efficiently and effectively. Give it a try and let us know how you like it. If you need help or more information, please call the library at 826-3712 or drop us an email.