Expanding Boundaries: The Role of VR in the Modern Library
Nathan T. Camp · 2025
Extended reality (XR) is a new service that many libraries have begun providing that offers exciting new possibilities of user experiences. This chapter explores the history of XR technologies, charting their evolution and growing relevance in libraries for applications such as creating virtual collections, making libraries more accessible, and digitizing cultural heritage objects and locations. The chapter provides practical hardware and software recommendations tailored to libraries, addressing budget, infrastructure considerations, and user needs. Key considerations and challenges associated with introducing an XR service include cost, health concerns, staff training, privacy concerns, and sustainability. Best practices for implementing XR are outlined, focusing on planning, implementation, and ongoing use of the devices. This chapter concludes with future research considerations for XR.