On Monday, the Cranston Public Library’s Central Library hosted an “open showcase” for individuals age 13 and up to try out and experience virtual reality systems, including Google Expedition and Oculus Quest headsets.

One of the scenes being viewed by participants was a job simulator, which included a restaurant setting.

According to Katherine Boden, Emerging Technologies librarian, one of the games included the ability for users to “map out” an area in which to walk. Once the user reaches a boundary, it glows to let them know, she said.

The VR systems, according to Boden, can connect to a tablet and be projected. Corrie Alves, coordinator of technology for the library, said the Google Expeditions app includes a variety of scenes, whether it be outer space or destinations such as Rome. She added that with the app, teachers can view what their students are seeing.

When using the Google Expedition set and Google Cardboard app, there is an arrow that points to what the guide or teacher wants the user to view. For example, if a student is viewing the outer space scene, an arrow points to Jupiter or the Sun and the teacher knows the student is looking at those subjects.

According to Julie Holden, assistant director for the library, the two Oculus Quest devices being used were purchased through the Mary Ann and Walter Slocomb Fund at Cranston Public Library. The Google Expedition device was purchased with a grant from the Rhode Island Office of Library and Information Services, along with assistance from the Institute of Museum and Library Services.