This report presents data from 116 academic library directors, deans and other high level officials about their use of and plans for the use of virtual reality technology in the library. The study furnishes detailed data on the percentage of libraries who consider virtual reality a priority for their libraries, and to what extent. It includes data on academic library spending on virtual technology over the past two years, and plans for spending over the next two years. The study also looks at the type of equipment desired by the libraries, and the departments of the library entrusted with virtual reality technology development.
Survey participants also discuss the subject disciplines and other college and university departments most interested in using virtual reality technology in or from the library. The study’s findings are highlighted in 28 tables and 12 graphs and charts.
Just a few of the study’s many findings are that:
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Male directors and deans were more interested than female directors and deans in developing virtual reality technology.
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Close to 14% of respondents said that their library technology lending programs included virtual reality goggles or other virtual reality technology.
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Survey participants expected virtual reality spending to more than double over the next two years.