Abstract:

The DeLaMare Science and Engineering Library at the University of Nevada, Reno implemented a lending technology collection for Virtual Reality (VR) technology in 2013. In the past 3 years, the service has grown tremendously; with more technologies being added to the collection, including Oculus Rift, VR One, HTC Vive, Leap Motion and others. This service has further enabled librarians in building relationships with their students, creating collaborative opportunities for academic and scholarly work  across disciplines, and providing k-12 outreach and engagement to support “STEAM” education at their local schools and community. These technologies have enabled the DeLaMare Library to support the University’s mission of teaching and learning, research, and outreach. This poster will highlight what virtual reality equipment has been curated, how the library provides the lending service, scholarly and academic work utilizing VR, and outreach efforts utilizing the equipment. If you want to learn more come by and try one for yourself.

Keywords:

Academic libraries, outreach, higher education, virtual reality.