Developing Virtual Reality Experiences for Archival Collections: Case Study of the May Massee Collection at Emporia State University

Abstract

Virtual reality has recently transformed from a complex and expensive technology that was not a practical educational tool for archives to one that is easily affordable and easy to use in a variety of archival and special collection situations. This case study discusses the use of virtual reality technology to make a special collection at Emporia State University accessible 24/7 to a global audience of classrooms and individuals. Without complex coding or high cost overhead, the design of high-quality virtual reality experiences is now accessible to any organization and can be carried out by a student assistant or intern without causing a great amount of additional work for the busy archivist. The article discusses the design process for Emporia State's virtual reality experience for the May Massee Collection, along with challenges faced and outcomes of the project.