Virtual reality game truck brings fun and imagination to Valentine library

VALENTINE, Neb. — This wasn’t your typical trailer.

When kids stepped inside the VR Game Truck Nebraska during its visit to the Valentine Public Library, they entered a virtual world filled with games—from boxing and bowling to slicing fruit like ninjas.

“I like playing video games,” said 9-year-old Kamen Garwood.

Kamen was one of dozens of kids who explored the mobile virtual reality setup, which stopped at the library this month as part of a special event focused on interactive learning.

“We’re such a small town, so the library is the community center of the town,” said Nichole Garwood, assistant director of the Valentine Public Library.

In addition to books, the library regularly offers educational programming for all ages. And while virtual reality might seem like it’s all fun and games, organizers say it’s also becoming a critical training tool in industries such as healthcare and construction.

“As technology develops, it’s more of what we’ll need to use,” said Michael Dale, owner of VR Game Truck Nebraska.

Dale predicts that virtual reality is here to stay. However, he thinks the technology will change.

“The equipment is going to get simpler and easier to use. Right now you have big headsets. Eventually it will probably just be glasses,” said Dale.

Changing technology that can be fun and also a tool in their future careers.

“Technology is the future,” said Kamen.