Implementing Virtual Reality Training for Librarians: Supporting Patrons in Crisis

Abstract

This research proposes a study that is part of a larger, interdisciplinary, and multi‐institutional project that examines the usability of VR training for library and information science (LIS) graduate students and professionals in gaining skills for interacting effectively with patrons in crisis. This project is entirely novel and innovative in its approach. To date, no virtual reality training for crisis management in libraries exists. Additionally, we hypothesize that our project will ultimately enable us to: reach a wider audience with training; consider the usability of VR training in LIS education; introduce training in low‐stakes environments that does not pose harm to patrons in crisis; engage students in an immersive learning experience. This project can create possibilities for how we approach LIS education within our department and support training students in vital, but difficult to teach, soft skills such as empathy and communication (Saunders & Bajjaly, 2021).