The Massachusetts Library System is pleased to announce that we have contracted with ALA to provide our members with access to their live webinars.  These webinars are free to MLS members who register through our calendar.  Please do not register directly with ALA. Members who register directly with ALA are responsible for paying their registration fee. 

Please help us keep MLS sponsored training free for all members. If you are unable to attend the live webinar, please cancel your registration. A cancellation link can be found in your confirmation email, or you may contact Sarah Donnelly at sdonnelly@masslibsystem.org to cancel. 

Description

Step into the past and bring cultural stories to life—no headset required! This beginner-friendly webinar introduces libraries to the fundamentals of Augmented and Virtual Reality (AR/VR) and how these technologies can be used to create immersive exhibits and engaging programs. 

We’ll explore easy-to-use tools like SeekBeak, ZapWorks, and 360° cameras to help you design interactive experiences using equipment you likely already have. Learn how to develop your first projects, from AR posters and Merge Cube artifact exploration to 360° local history tours and virtual exhibits. Featured programs include "Myth in Motion," "History on a Cube," "Create a Virtual Exhibit," and "Teen Curators." Whether you’re serving young readers or lifelong learners, this session will equip you with practical ideas and accessible workflows to start small and make a big impact.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

• Define Augmented and Virtual Reality in simple terms and understand the differences between them in a library context.
• Identify beginner-friendly tools and platforms for creating AR and VR experiences using phones, tablets, or basic 360° cameras.
• Plan and implement interactive cultural programs such as augmented posters, virtual exhibits, and immersive storytelling activities.

Presenter

Ellyssa Valenti Kroski is the Director of Innovation & Engagement at the New York Law Institute as well as an award-winning editor and author of 75 books. She is a librarian, an adjunct faculty member at San Jose State University, and an international conference speaker. She can be found at: https://www.amazon.com/author/ellyssa.

Accessibility Information

If you have questions or requests regarding accessibility, contact ce@ala.org or at 312-280-5100.