On Aug. 1, Drexel University entered a new era of apparel as Rally House’s brick and mortar location on campus opened. Rally House is the new manager of Drexel’s book store, replacing Barnes and Noble.
Until September, Rally House’s status will be classified as a “soft-opening,” and the store will be adding more inventory throughout the month before formally opening in conjunction with the fall term.
As you approach the Rally House, the exterior’s sole change is a temporary covering of the old Barnes and Noble signage with Rally House branding.
However, once you walk through the doors, the difference between Rally House and Barnes and Noble becomes immediately apparent.
Immediately upon entering, customers encounter one of the main alterations to the store’s offerings. Rally House, unlike Barnes and Noble, sells a wide variety of Philadelphia-themed apparel and merchandise. Just past the doors, options such as Philadelphia-opoly, puzzles and even Rocky Balboa merchandise.
Past that, there is a wide variety of Drexel merchandise. Some of the merchandise bears a striking resemblance to apparel of the Barnes and Noble era, but other apparel is distinct and brings a new, generally more artistic look to the merchandise.
In the area where Barnes and Noble formerly stocked textbooks, Rally House has curated a wing full of Philadelphia sports merchandise. Now, students can gear up for Drexel sporting events and Philadelphia’s professional teams’ games at the same central location, with a wide variety of options for each team.
The former location will continue to serve as a bookstore — though less prominently — with textbook services provided by eCampus. Course materials will be available in print and digital formats.