Virtual reality Holocaust exhibit in final days at Katonah Village Library

Holocaust Survivor Fritzie Fritzshall in A Promise Kept. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

For a limited time at Katonah Village Library, discover the power of virtual reality technology as an enhancement in Holocaust education. Using VR headsets, “walk” with Holocaust survivors through childhood hometowns and concentration camps as they share their stories of survival. 

”The Journey Back: A VR Experience” will be exhibited at the library through Sunday, April 13. 

The two films being shown are: 

— “A Promise Kept.” Follow Fritzie Fritzshall as she returns to her hometown and the notorious Auschwitz concentration camp, sharing her promise made to the 599 women who helped save her life.

— “Don’t Forget Me.” Journey back to Auschwitz, Mauthausen and Ebensee concentration camps with survivor George Brent, revealing one son’s will to survive the face of Nazi tyranny.

The virtual reality headsets powered by 360-degree immersive technology allow viewers to “walk” with Holocaust Survivors through childhood hometowns and concentration camps as they share their stories of survival.

The library said the experience has brought some participants to tears. As the credits roll, viewers removing their headsets grapple with the impact of hearing stories of profound sadness and inspiration while “standing” beside the survivor and at the locations of the horrors they faced. 

The unique experience leaves the library soon, but can still be experienced at 11 a.m. or noon Saturday, April 12, or at 2 or 3 p.m. Sunday, April 13. Drop-ins are welcome or call the Library to reserve a spot.

The VR experience was created by Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center in collaboration with East City Films and made possible through the generous support of Diane C. Hunter. 

To register for a time slot, call 914-232-3508 or visit katonahlibrary.org.

Katonah Village Library is located at 26 Bedford Road, Katonah.