Somerset Libraries will be taking their customers on some cracking techno adventures when it opens up a new, interactive virtual world this summer.
The ground-breaking initiative will deliver a range of breathtaking Virtual Reality experiences in Taunton, Bridgwater, Yeovil and Chard libraries from 28 June – 11 July, such as accompanying Wallace and Gromit on an adventure, sitting in with a full orchestra while they play Lark Ascending or experience riding in a World War Two bomber.
The Somerset Council service is the only one of its kind in the South West to offer a new window on the digital world when it launches Digital Spaces, an ambitious new programme in association with Arts Council England, British Film Institute, and The Space.
The programme for the VR Experiences Tour is as follows:
- Taunton Library: Saturday 28 June 10am-3pm –
- Bridgwater Library: Thursday 3 July 10am-3pm and Friday 4 July 10am-1pm –
- Yeovil Library: Saturday 5 July 10am-1pm; Monday 7 July 10am-3pm
- Chard Library: Tuesday 8 July 10am-3pm; Thursday 10 July 10am-3pm; Friday 11 July 10am-3pm
There’s no need to book. All ages will be encouraged to get hands-on with the venture from pre-teens to older people, although anyone aged 12y or under will need a consent form signed by a parent or guardian.
“We are delighted Somerset has been picked for this amazing experience,” said Cllr Federica Smith-Roberts, Executive member for Communities.
“I hope the experiences on offer will encourage many more people to discover what exciting places our libraries are. The experiences are all different so will have a broad appeal.
“We have a great reputation for getting people engaged with the digital world. This will put Somerset firmly on the map and prove that our libraries are so much more than places to borrow books.
“It will be a great experience for everyone who takes part and, once we have the logistics in place, we will make sure people know how they can join in and embark on some incredible adventures. Please follow us on Facebook @SomersetCouncilUK.”
There will be a second chance to try out the VR experiences when the headsets come back to Somerset libraries early next year – times and venues will be confirmed nearer the date.
The service is also taking part in the new Libraries Digital Network, a collaboration with eight other library services, including: Bradford, Cambridgeshire, Coventry, Leeds, Manchester, Newham, Nottinghamshire, and Sunderland.
Fiona Morris, CEO and Creative Director of The Space, said: “Libraries play a vital role in society so we’re delighted to embark upon this programme which will turbocharge the library offering and provide an abundance of digital creative opportunities for communities.”
