Most hostels have a superb social atmosphere. Likely this is because Rome is such an exuberant city: but this may also have something to do with the traditional factors of high turnover and youthful aplomb to travelling somewhere new. In any event, it is likely that the hostel you stay at will not allow you to 'socialize' in the dormitory or shared rooms, but rather will have a specific room, or bar, which facilities for this.

Aside from the social room, hostels in Rome ordinarily have laundry rooms (self-catering), telephones and breakfast services (which are not usually included as part of the price to stay). Most modern hostels also have Internet facilities.