September 30, 2021 – Rendever, a provider of a virtual reality (VR) platform built to help seniors overcome social isolation through shared experiences, has recently announced that the Craven-Pamlico Regional Library in eastern North Carolina has received a state grant to roll out Rendever’s VR system. The VR platform can be accessed at all five of its member libraries, introducing members to the world of virtual reality while also helping to reduce the impact of social isolation from the COVID-19 pandemic. This is Rendever’s first partnership with a public library system.
“While our platform was built to help seniors improve their mental and physical health by decreasing the effects of social isolation, our team is always looking for new ways to offer the benefits of the platform to a larger audience,” said Kyle Rand, Cofounder and CEO at Rendever. “Through Rendever, Craven-Pamlico Regional Library members have access to popular sites, like the Eiffel Tower in Paris or the Pyramids in Egypt. Beyond that, users can explore remote areas, whether it be out of interest, in preparation for a trip, or for educational purposes.”
According to Rendever, area residents began to rely more regularly on the Craven-Pamlico libraries to overcome social isolation and expand their horizons as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Our members are always looking to immerse themselves in new experiences and continue to learn,” said Katherine Clowers, Regional Director at Craven-Pamlico Regional Library. “Virtual reality opens up a world of immersive possibilities for our members. Thanks to Rendever, they can explore faraway bucket-list destinations in addition to experiencing new activities, like swimming with dolphins. The last 18 months have been particularly difficult with the COVID-19 pandemic, and we’re thrilled to offer them new experiences when travel can still be unsafe.”
Rendever stated that this digital inclusion project, titled “Get It”, was supported by grant funds from the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the federal Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) as administered by the State Library of North Carolina.
For more information about Rendever and its platform for sharing social VR experiences, please visit the company’s website.
Image credit: Rendever
About the author
Sam Sprigg
Sam is the Founder and Managing Editor of Auganix. With a background in research and report writing, he has been covering XR industry news for the past seven years.
