Recently we added virtual reality glasses to our Library of Things. I've always wanted to try them, and so I did. I started out riding a virtual roller coaster. I haven't been on a roller coaster for a few years, but I love them. So I thought I'd give that a shot. Well, after about 45 seconds, I had to take the glasses off because I started to feel nauseated. I never even got to the top of the hill!
My staff then recommended that I try the Jurassic Park experience, so I got that all cued up. They assured me that it wasn't scary, but I was scared anyway. Although I was just going for a peaceful walk in Jurassic Park, if there is such a thing, I was certain something was going to jump out and eat me alive. And even when a gentle Triceratops sauntered up next to me to join me on my walk, I was terrified. So, I had to stop that one too.
Finally, my staff recommended Google maps. You can type in any address and get a full 365 degree view of that location. I "traveled" to Red Square in Moscow before cuing up my home town of Rhinelander, Wisconsin. Within a minute, I felt like I was really there, standing outside my hometown McDonald's, just a short walk from the library where I got my start.
The upshot is that virtual reality is pretty cool once you find the experience that's right for you. I don't quite have the stomach for all of it. But, maybe you do. Stop by the library and give it a try.
Lynn Hobbs
PCL Director
