The A.D. Allen Chemistry Library now has two VR headsets to offer students interested in studying the geometry of molecules in three dimensions.
The Oculus Quest II headsets, equipped with Nanome software, can be booked concurrently with a study room. Full details on the headsets, their study potential, and booking instructions can be found on the library site.
“We are thrilled to launch the VR Headset loaning service as the latest addition to our suite of technology resources and services at the Chemistry Library," said Librarian Madeline Gerbig. "The headsets will be another valuable tool in our researchers’ toolbox, giving them the ability to visualize and design molecular structures in 3D space.”
The rollout of the VR headsets is the latest update to library services, which have also seen the 2025 addition of seven new PCs and a new Mac in the library for student use. The computers, according to Gerbig, are already an essential and well-used resource, especially for students who use them to complete their course assignments and lab work.
"Chemistry students and other U of T community members enjoy the ability to access specialized chemistry software and view their work on our large, high-definition monitors," she said. "Even with many students now purchasing their own personal devices, the library computers can serve as an invaluable backup should a laptop fail at a crucial moment in the semester."
"Our computers also have an exciting new feature that allows users to display their personal laptop’s screen on the monitor by simply connecting it via the USB-C cable provided at each workstation.”
In an announcement to the Department about the headsets, Gerbig expressed gratitude to the Tran Lab for the generous donation of equipment, to Patrick Wong in ChemIT and graduate students Abigail Clapperton and Samuel Nyandwi, who played an essential role in testing and setup. Chief Administrative Officer Grace Flock provided invaluable guidance, the announcement said, in reviewing loan procedures from a health and safety perspective.
Nanome is a collaborative XR platform for molecular visualization and design, allowing users to interact with molecular structures together in an immersive virtual environment. Studying the geometries of molecules in 3D, users can take measurements of distances or angles using their hands, and stand amid giant-sized molecules to investigate their structure.
The opportunity to use VR and Nanome software was made possible through a Graduate Education Innovation Fund grant.