MEDIA, Pa. — The new academic year brings new improvements and additions to Penn State Brandywine, including a feature that allows students to easily access supplies and equipment at the touch of a button.
RecRe boxes are a modern solution for making storage accessible and sharable within a community. These self-service smart lockers can be accessed at any time using a QR code and mobile device, giving students the opportunity to quickly and conveniently access essentials they need.
“This is the kind of initiative I love seeing at Brandywine because it takes a student-led idea and turns it into something students can immediately experience,” said Austin Duckett, director of student affairs. “It all started when the Billiards Club was simply looking for a convenient way to store and access billiard supplies. This idea was a great example of supporting a shared idea and making it happen.”
Two of Brandywine’s three new RecRe boxes can be found in the Student Union in rooms 202 (Club Room) and 104 (Lion’s Den). The third is located in Orchard Hall.
While the name RecRe may make it seem like the boxes are solely for recreational items, such as basketballs and ping pong paddles, they offer much more to meet the diverse needs of Brandywine students.
Items such as laptops, cameras, chargers, course materials and even cooking supplies can be found in Brandywine’s RecRe boxes.
Additionally, if there is something students would like to see added, they can simply reach out to the Office of Student Affairs, which can work to make additional items available.
“My hope is that students see the RecRe boxes as one more resource designed around their experience. Whether they’re looking for something recreational, need a charger or piece of technology, or simply want to try something new, we want students to feel like the campus is responding to how they actually live and learn,” added Duckett.
Brandywine is the third Penn State campus to partner with RecRe to make borrowing items easier for students, especially outside of traditional office hours.
“The RecRe boxes are a great example of how we’re continuing to modernize the student experience at Penn State Brandywine. By providing convenient, self-service access, we’re removing small barriers and creating more opportunities for students to engage, connect, and enjoy their time on campus — on their own terms and timeline," said Duckett.
So, no more standing in line, filling out forms, or waiting for an attendant to supply your needs. Students can simply walk over to a RecRe box on campus, scan the QR code and get what they need, when they need it.
For more information about RecRe and how it works, click here or contact Penn State Brandywine’s Office of Student Affairs.