Journey with courageous Holocaust survivors on an immersive “walk” into their hometowns and World War II concentration camps. Through the Illinois Holocaust Museum’s generous loan, participants can attend the library’s upcoming film events through virtual reality headsets.
The five available films are based on true experiences in the concentration camps Auschwitz, Mathausen and Ebensee. The films also take viewers on journeys across Northern Europe to evade Nazis, and one survivor’s experience fleeing Germany to Shanghai, China, which was one of the only open countries for European Jews during the Holocaust. For full film descriptions and detailed viewing hours, please visit pagosalibrary.org.
Participants may watch one film, which are on average 17 minutes long, or view all five films that run approximately 83 minutes.
Library staff and volunteers will help participants set up the headsets, and participants are encouraged to be prepared for any emotional responses and to make self-care a priority before and after viewing.
View the virtual reality films at the Ruby Sisson Library, 811 San Juan St., between May 27 and June 6. Film showing times will vary and no registration is required to attend. Call ahead to (970) 264-2209 with questions or email library program coordinator Judy Brennen at judy@pagosalibrary.org.
These virtual reality films are part of a traveling trunk show that has been loaned to the Ruby Sisson Library from the Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center. This museum’s aim is to “foster dialogue that respects and honors diverse perspectives, encouraging individuals of all political and social perspectives to engage with history to better understand today’s realities.” It promotes “empathy, respect, and collective humanity as we navigate these turbulent waters.”
By bringing this first-in-the-world virtual reality exhibition to Pagosa Springs, the Ruby Sisson Library continues to provide access to informative and enriching experiences to our community.
