[Web4lib] RSS calendar/events feeds for library programming

[Amy M. Drayer]

Dear Bret and Web4Lib:

We were toying with the idea of providing RSS feeds for our events.  We 
provide several other feeds(1), but the basic concept of a daily events 
list didn't seem conducive to RSS.  For instance, how useful is it to 
get a long list of today's events that morning (if it sends out right 
away and if the patron reads it right away...) if the person doesn't 
have time to plan getting there?  Then if not today's events,  how far 
out is useful?  We have eVanced Solutions' eVents calendaring system, 
which allows us to pull "feeds" or content onto our site (2) (the system 
also allows patrons to opt in for specific event reminders).  Otherwise, 
we announce featured events through our news feed.

I would be interested to hear if anyone has thought of a useful way to 
incorporate RSS and event programs though. :-)

1.  RSS page: http://www.jocolibrary.org/RSS
2.  Classes and events with today's events (each branch page has its own 
automated list too): http://www.jocolibrary.org/events

-- 

In peace,

Amy M Drayer
Web Interface Designer
amostrom at gmail.com
http://www.tc.umn.edu/~aostrom/

"For dangers untold and hardships unnumbered, I have fought my way to the castle beyond the goblin city to take back the child that you have stolen. For my will is as strong as yours, and my kingdom is as great. You have no power over me." -Labyrinth