UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Teaching and Learning with Technology (TLT), part of University Libraries at Penn State, has launched the AI Commons, a new service to help Penn State faculty, staff and students explore generative artificial intelligence.
As Penn State expands access to tools such as AI Studio and other enterprise AI platforms, the AI Commons provides a space for developing thoughtful, effective use via applied learning, experimentation, collaboration and responsible AI practice.
Penn State’s AI Essentials course provides a foundational starting point for faculty, staff and students to understand AI and engage with it responsibly and ethically. The AI Commons builds on that foundation by helping Penn Staters take the next step through hands-on exploration, consultation, and applied learning.
Launching for the fall 2026 semester, the AI Commons brings together three core TLT services:
- AI Consultations help Penn Staters identify and connect with relevant expertise, services, and initiatives from across the University for guidance on teaching, learning, and the thoughtful application of AI.
- AI Creative Labs provide hands-on learning experiences in which students use generative AI as a creative collaborator to design artifacts, produce music, and explore AI-assisted creation.
- AI Arcade offers an in-person space in the Shields Building Media Commons where faculty and students can explore premium AI applications, guided creative activities and retro-inspired games reimagined with AI.
“The AI Commons is intended to help Penn Staters move from learning about AI to thoughtfully applying, questioning and creating with it,” said Zach Lonsinger, interim innovation and experiences manager in TLT. “We want to provide a welcoming starting point where people can explore ideas, connect with expertise, and find the programs and resources that best fit their needs.”
Although the AI Commons will initially operate as a virtual service, its website connects visitors with both virtual and in-person AI learning opportunities offered through TLT.
Connecting Penn Staters with AI resources and communities
As the number of AI programs, tools and communities across Penn State continues to grow, it can be difficult to know where to begin or which resources best fit a particular need. The AI Commons Connect & Explore page provides a clear starting point by helping Penn Staters discover and connect with relevant programs, training, guidance and communities from across the University.
The AI Commons will also collaborate with AI Horizons, Penn State’s University-wide AI community of practice for faculty and staff. Although AI Horizons remains a separate initiative, its monthly Zoom sessions and Microsoft Teams community provide opportunities to learn about faculty projects, share resources, ask questions and discuss emerging AI practices.
To learn more, request a consultation or explore available programs and resources, visit the AI Commons website.
For questions, contact Zach Lonsinger at zal5010@psu.edu.