Augmented and Virtual Reality Technologies: Bridging Practice and Research in the Academic Library

This paper offers practical insights and lessons learned from over five years of direct experience provisioning and supporting augmented and virtual reality equipment as lendable technology. A pragmatic exploration of one academic library's experience in the development, sustainability, and evolution of augmented and virtual reality technology and associated services. Analyzed and critiqued in comparison to traditional library materials and services, the novel library collection is bridging the gap between learning, research, and practice. Library support is proving to be critical path: from the initial development of the lending technology collections, through the collaborative development of mixed reality equipment, spaces, and software. Specific details associated with the library's current state of practice are shared, including specifics as to working systems for both the HTC Vive and Oculus Rift equipment on dedicated mobile workstations available throughout the library. Collaborations with departments including Computer Science & Engineering, as well as the School of Journalism, have proven to be a natural outcome of the library's support: joint effort resulting in the development of numerous dedicated mobile augmented and virtual reality software development stations throughout the library, and resultant exhibit development.