Academic use and perceptions of Virtual Reading Rooms and Virtual Teaching Spaces

Academic use and perceptions of Virtual Reading Rooms and Virtual Teaching Spaces

Date: September 2022

Author: Christina Kamposiori

This report presents the results of a recent survey launched by Research Libraries UK (RLUK), in collaboration with the School of Advanced Study (SAS), University of London, and members of a working group convened by the International Alliance of Research Library Associations (IARLA).

The aim of this research was to establish the academic awareness, experience, and perception of Virtual Reading Rooms (VRRs) and Virtual Teaching Spaces (VTSs). Developing a better understanding of user needs and motivations behind the use of VRRs and VTSs will lead to further improvements which will ensure greater use and sustainability of the services. It complements an ongoing piece of research being undertaken by RLUK regarding the potential of VRRs as digital research infrastructure and the possibilities and benefits of undertaking a networked approach.