Penn State Libraries Offers a Virtual Open House for World Campus Students

stacks of books sitting on a table
Categories: Library Resources
October 2nd, 2025
By John Shank

Penn State World Campus students have free access to one of the top research libraries in North America, but many students may not know about all the services and resources available to them. Penn State Libraries’ Virtual Open House for World Campus students aims to change that by offering a self-paced, interactive tutorial that unlocks millions of academic resources, free delivery services, and expert research support designed specifically for online learners.

In just 15 to 30 minutes, you can discover how to access scholarly databases, get physical books shipped directly to your door, and connect with librarians who want to see you succeed.

Learning online presents unique challenges, and one of the biggest is the possibility of feeling disconnected from campus resources. You might be balancing work, family, and course work from hundreds or thousands of miles away. Maybe you've struggled to find credible, high-quality sources for a research paper. Penn State Libraries’ Virtual Open House for World Campus was created especially for students like you: busy, motivated learners who need access to the same world-class resources as students on campus, delivered in a way that fits your schedule and location.

What You Will Discover in the Open House Tutorial

Penn State Libraries’ Virtual Open House for World Campus is an interactive, multimedia experience that walks you through some of Penn State's Libraries’ most useful services at your own pace. Available 24/7 from anywhere with internet access, the tutorial features multiple "stops" covering different library services — think of it as a virtual tour for you to actively engage with resources rather than passively reading about them.

The tutorial covers everything from basic navigation to how to access digital audiobooks. You can learn how to search the catalog and discover services you did not know existed. Best of all, it is completely self-guided. Pause when you need to, return later if you are interrupted, and complete it at whatever time works for your schedule.

The Game-Changing Services You May Not Know About

Here is something that sets Penn State apart from other online programs: you get full access to a top research library with millions of physical and digital items, and they will ship materials directly to you anywhere in North America. The Open House will show you how to use the book delivery service, which ships physical books, DVDs, CDs, and other materials via UPS or U.S. Mail to your home or office. Return shipping labels are included, so sending items back costs you nothing. If you are serving in the military, materials can even be delivered to APO/FPO addresses.

Access extends far beyond Penn State's own collections. Through interlibrary loan partnerships, you can request materials from libraries across the country and around the world. Whether you need an obscure academic journal from 1987 or a recent book your library does not own, the interlibrary loan team will track it down and get it to you. These services save students time and money.

Your Personal Research Support Team

The Open House introduces you to the ASK Service — your direct line to library experts who want to help you succeed. Professional librarians and staff with deep expertise in research methodologies, database navigation, citation styles, and more are available via chat, phone, email, and even text.

Why This Matters for Your Academic Program and Beyond

Many online students default to Google or basic internet searches because university library systems can seem complicated or intimidating. The Open House demystifies academic research by sharing practical, step-by-step instructions for useful library services and shows you how to access scholarly databases that have peer-reviewed, credible research that you cannot access through Google.

How to Get Started

As a World Campus student, you have the same access to these resources as students walking through campus every day, but only if you know they exist and how to use them. The virtual Open House is your invitation to claim these advantages and level up your academic game. Do not let another semester go by wondering where to find credible sources or spending money on books you could borrow for free. Take the tour, earn your certificate, and discover what has been waiting for you all along.

Ready to unlock these resources? Simply visit the Penn State Libraries’ Virtual Open House for World Campus students and log in with your Penn State credentials.

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