Unlike desktop computers, reading in virtual reality allows the reader and the information to cohabit in the three-dimensional space. However, virtual reality typography rarely exploits the new affordances three-dimensionality offers. This study addressed the need to understand the contributions of spatially distributed layouts on expository text memory. An experiment with 40 college students was conducted to compare recall and recognition performances in two conditions; a flat layout without any spatial attributions to test baseline memory ability and a condition using a virtual reality-based, spatial layout. It was hypothesized that spatial layout assist in retrieving information from scientific expository text, which tends to have a difficult word or syntax structure and high conceptual density. Multiple regression analysis showed that using spatially distributed layouts to retrieve information did not provide an increase in both recall and recognition of the participants. A thematic analysis of interviews suggested that customizing the text layout through interactions would be helpful for information retrieval. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]