Virtual Reality at the Library

About Virtual Reality

Access the latest technology with Sonoma County Library’s virtual reality (VR) equipment and software. Build new skills, make informed decisions, and explore endless possibilities—all without leaving the library!

The library’s VR lineup includes the HTC Vive, Oculus GO, Oculus Quest, and ClassVR headsets. Experience VR and the benefits of immersive learning at our special events.

What is Virtual Reality?

In virtual reality, wearing a headset immerses you in a virtual world and gives you a sense of “presence” or a feeling of actually being there. A computer generates an environment that creates the illusion of a three-dimensional space that you can interact with and explore. With certain devices, you can even control or manipulate the world around you.

Where Can I Use VR Equipment?

Explore VR at five library locations:

• Central Santa Rosa Library
• Healdsburg Library
• Petaluma Library
• Rincon Valley Library
• Rohnert Park-Cotati Library

For a complete list of activities featuring Oculus Rift gear, check out our VR events.

What Can I Do with VR?

• Explore: Experience our planet like you’ve never experienced it before! Travel around the world, to distant planets, and even back in time.
• Discover: Learn more about the ocean, outer space, or the human body. Try meditating, or relaxation techniques.
• Create: Make works of art.
• Play: Try gaming in a 3D environment.

What to Know Before a VR Session

• Participants must be ages 14 and up.
• Participants need to sign a waiver before using the equipment; minors must provide a legal guardian’s signature. Fill out and print a waiver form to bring to a VR session or ask for a form at the library.
• The Oculus Rift and HTC Vive VR headsets are available during special events only.
• Oculus Rift and HTC Vive VR experiences may cause dizziness and disorientation. Those prone to motion sickness should take care when using the Oculus Rift and HTC Vive.

VR at the Library Made Possible By:

Virtual reality at the library is funded by the Measure Y sales tax, the community’s investment in free public libraries. Oculus Rift VR at the library is made possible through a California State Library grant. Oculus VR, Califa, and VAR Libraries have teamed up with the California State Library to bring 100 Oculus Rift headsets and compatible computers to 90 libraries throughout California.