September 28, 2023

As more than 3,700 new undergraduate and graduate students arrived on campus last week for the University’s new student orientation, the Drexel University Libraries (DUL) was delighted to host its own events to welcome new Dragons to campus and help them ease into the fall term.

During this year’s Welcome Week, the Libraries held daily open house events in the W. W. Hagerty Library where students could grab snacks and DUL swag and chat with staff. Self-guided tours provided a simple way for students to explore the library building and familiarize themselves with the different equipment, spaces, and resources and services before the start of classes so they’re a step ahead going into the term.

“Welcome Week is not just an introduction to Drexel’s campus, it also helps both new and returning students to find a sense of belonging and a support system as classes begin,” said John Wiggins, Director, Library Services & Quality Improvement. “We want all our new Dragons – as well as returning students – to recognize the Libraries as a safe space on campus. We also want them to feel comfortable using our resources and services or asking our staff for help throughout their careers here at Drexel.”

The Libraries continued its welcome back events into week 1 of the term, hosting the traditional Welcome Back “Wooder” Ice Party at the Library Learning Terrace. This year was the first year the Libraries hosted this event since the pandemic.

Staff were almost as excited as students were to scoop water ice (pronounced “wooder” here in Philadelphia) and talk about the Libraries’ resources, services, and spaces on such a beautiful fall day.

All told, the event was a huge success: staff handed out 10 gallons of water ice in less than two hours!  

Want to learn more about the Drexel Libraries? Check out our virtual orientation guide for all the details about the resources and services we provide Drexel students throughout their careers at Drexel and beyond.