Subscribers to RSS feeds automatically pull information to them saving them the trouble of hunting down websites or waiting for emails. That can be an important time saver for many people. Moreover, since the RSS subscription is functioning 24/7, the subscriber is assured of being up to date on whatever information he is interested in. In addition, the format of the RSS feed--a headline and a few sentences--permits the subscribers to perform quick scans, only going deeper when something interests him. In a way, it's like flipping through the pages of a magazine.
For the manager of a library, RSS has powerful advantages. First, it's easy to update. Second, it is an easier way to get information to the library community than preparing and sending out emails even with pre-existing email address collections. In other words, since the subscriber to an RSS feed is pulling information towards himself, the library is saved the hassle of pushing information out. Third, it is a good vehicle for the library to new programs. Finally, it is a simple way to entice the subscriber to link back in to other library programs.
I like the way you have described it as sort of like flipping through a magazine - that's a good way to explain it!
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