June 4, 2019

Drexel University’s 2019 commencement ceremonies are just around the corner, but that doesn’t mean new graduates have to leave the Libraries behind.

We invite this year’s graduating class—and all other alumni—to return to campus to take advantage of the Libraries’ resources, services, and physical and online environments that can aid them in their life-long quest for learning.

Below, we revisit some Frequently Asked Questions about utilizing the Libraries’ resources after becoming an alumnus.

Q: I just graduated from Drexel, and I want to use the W. W. Hagerty Library. Can I still get in?

A: Yes! All alumni of Drexel University, Medical College of Pennsylvania, Hahnemann University, Allegheny University of the Health Sciences and MCP Hahnemann University are welcome to visit any of our Libraries locations: W. W. Hagerty Library in University City; Hahnemann Library in Center City, and Queen Lane Library in East Falls.

All you need is an Alumni Card or a letter or letter confirming alumni status, which you can get by visiting the Paul Peck Alumni Center in person or by filling out a form online.

Once you have your alumni card or a letter, bring it to the service desk at any of our locations and fill out an Application for Library Privileges. Alumni Library Cards do not expire, but we will ask you to verify your current contact information each year.

Q. When are the Drexel libraries open to alumni?

A: Alumni may enter any Drexel Libraries location during normal open hours, except during final exam periods.

Q: Can I still borrow books as an alumnus?

A: Of course. Alumni may check out up to 20 print resources (including books and DVDs) at a time. The loan period for books is 28 days, with two online renewals. You can borrow DVDs for 14 days, with two online renewals. Visit our Services for Alumni webpage to learn more.

Q: What about online resources? Do you offer alumni online access to electronic books, journals and databases?

A: Alumni can access many electronic resources from inside any Libraries location (though some licenses specifically prohibit alumni access). Simply present your alumni card to a staff member at the service desk for assistance. Unfortunately, alumni are not able to access electronic resources from off-campus at this time.

If you aren’t in the Philadelphia area or otherwise cannot access what you seek, there are other options you should consider. Read more about how your local public library can help with research, and don’t forget about Open Access materials, which don’t require a subscription.

Q: Do you offer any career-related information or services for alumni?

A: We have a specialized collection of career-related materials at the W. W. Hagerty Library in University City. Materials in the collection include everything from resume and interviewing guides to graduate admission test study guides to information about various career fields. Visit W. W. Hagerty Library to explore these materials. And don’t forget, alumni may also take advantage of Drexel’s Alumni Career Services program, as well as Steinbright Career Development Services.

Q: Are the University Archives open to alumni as well?

A: Drexel University Archives preserves the history of Drexel University, and all our alumni are invited to contact the Archives staff to explore the histories of academic departments and student organizations, or to peruse yearbooks and other Drexel publications.

For more information about alumni benefits and the Libraries, contact the Libraries or visit the Drexel alumni website.