Sperber Library - Virtual Reality Lab

Location: Basement of the Geoffrey + Robyn Sperber Health Sciences Library (L1-150A)

HOURS OF OPERATION:

Summer Hours (May 1 - August 31, 2025)

  • Monday to Friday 12:30 pm - 5:30 pm

Book the VR Lab

The Sperber Virtual Reality (VR) Lab, is a versatile space for learning, experimentation, and immersive content exploration for all University of Alberta students, staff and faculty.

Empty VR lab
Person using VR lab

VR Lab Policy

  • Bookable by the University of Alberta, faculty, staff, and students (CCID will be required) for academic, non-commercial activities
  • 2 hour maximum bookings per person during VR Lab hours
  • Maximum occupancy – 5 people
  • No food or drink in the VR Lab
  • Equipment is the responsibility of the user and cannot be removed from the room
  • Occupants must ensure the room remains clean and tidy

VR at the U of A Library

This VR Lab is one of two main VR sites within the U of A Library System, the other is located at the Digital Scholarship Centre on the 2nd floor of Cameron Library. Visit the DSC VR Studio here.

VR Applications Available in the Lab

Explore the VR Program Catalogue to view available programs for Steam and Meta platforms, including:

  • Motion sickness rating
  • Subject area focus (eg., anatomy, molecular science, health, recreation)
  • Interactivity notes and headset compatibility

Have questions or suggestions? Contact us about the software offerings.

VR LAB EQUIPMENT OVERVIEW

Valve Index Setup

  • VR Headset: Valve Index VR Kit (configured via Steam) Includes controllers, base station, and charging cables
  • Computer: Dell Alienware Aurora R15 (13th Gen Intel Core i9-13900KF, 64 GB RAM)
  • Monitore: Dell 32" 4K UHD Gaming Monitor

VR Lab Guide - Valve Index

Image of VR headset

Meta Quest Pro Setup

  • VR Headset: Meta Quest Pro (configured via Meta Horizon) Includes controllers, stylus tips, charging dock, protective cover, and partial light blocker.
  • Tablet: Apple iPad Mini

VR Lab Guide - Meta Quest Pro

Image of VR headset

Other Equipment + Furniture

For more information contact sperberhelp@ualberta.ca