Radical inclusion: immersive 360-degree video capture, dissemination, and use of emerging technology in support of traditional archival roles at a university library

This paper presents preliminary findings of a work-in-progress, a project operating in the overlap of virtual reality technology and the traditional role of libraries, archives, and museums in the preservation of archives, records, and cultural heritage materials. Currently in its third year of operation, the Radical Inclusion project has been utilizing consumer grade technology to capture, preserve, and disseminate unique cultural and historical experiences in immersive VR & 360-degree video format. Presented as a case study, detailed examples include workflows associated with the capture, post-processing, and dissemination of content associated with large-scale artwork installations: from in-depth exchanges and documentation of projects in the process of construction, to experiential vignettes from the Burning Man event that occurs in the Black Rock Desert. Archival collections are shared more broadly to “radically include” individuals and to preserve the experience for the future so that people can study and better understand thoughts and inspirations of the artists and fellow participants. Associated detail includes specific workflows developed and software; ethical considerations and practice surrounding the capture, sharing, and sustainability of the collection; and the potentially novel hybrid use of use of Islandora and Kaltura as web platform for distribution.