Keywords
Virtual Reality, Technology in Libraries, Fostering Collaborations
Description
The Radcliffe Science Library (RSL) is Oxford University’s principle science library and it provides easy access to digital tools to enhance teaching, learning and research. Previous projects have developed lending programmes for e-readers and iPads and introduced a popular 3D printing service. The library’s interest in adapting to disruptive technology and providing innovative tools to support academic projects and exploration of new technologies led us in 2017 to initiate a Virtual Reality (VR) lending programme. University members can now borrow VR Headsets, 360⁰ degree cameras and supplementary equipment free of charge from the RSL. In this paper we describe how the library VR programme has supplied opportunities to become more directly involved with student and researcher projects. In particular we will discuss the techniques used to promote experimentation with VR technology including touring the equipment around academic departments, organising a VR competition and engaging with real-world scientific research. Additionally we demonstrate how new services can develop into strategic collaborations which bring mutual benefits to the library and its partners. In particular, the RSL helped establish the VR & AR Oxford Hub in collaboration with University researchers. This has created a network of students, researchers and staff who are either working on or simply interested in VR & AR Technologies. The hub facilitates the sharing of ideas, expertise and equipment between members whilst also highlighting the library as a provider of innovative services. Our experience shows that far from being a ‘gimmick’, the VR lending service is part of maintaining the library’s relevance to the academic community while also remaining committed to the core library values of supporting research and disseminating information.
Using virtual reality to create real world collaborations
The Radcliffe Science Library (RSL) is Oxford University’s principle science library and it provides easy access to digital tools to enhance teaching, learning and research. Previous projects have developed lending programmes for e-readers and iPads and introduced a popular 3D printing service. The library’s interest in adapting to disruptive technology and providing innovative tools to support academic projects and exploration of new technologies led us in 2017 to initiate a Virtual Reality (VR) lending programme. University members can now borrow VR Headsets, 360⁰ degree cameras and supplementary equipment free of charge from the RSL. In this paper we describe how the library VR programme has supplied opportunities to become more directly involved with student and researcher projects. In particular we will discuss the techniques used to promote experimentation with VR technology including touring the equipment around academic departments, organising a VR competition and engaging with real-world scientific research. Additionally we demonstrate how new services can develop into strategic collaborations which bring mutual benefits to the library and its partners. In particular, the RSL helped establish the VR & AR Oxford Hub in collaboration with University researchers. This has created a network of students, researchers and staff who are either working on or simply interested in VR & AR Technologies. The hub facilitates the sharing of ideas, expertise and equipment between members whilst also highlighting the library as a provider of innovative services. Our experience shows that far from being a ‘gimmick’, the VR lending service is part of maintaining the library’s relevance to the academic community while also remaining committed to the core library values of supporting research and disseminating information.