A patch panel with pivoting bracket assembly is provided which reduces the tendency for optical fiber patch cords to entangle or snarl in front of the couplings of the patch panel. In a preferred embodiment, the patch panel incorporates a plurality of couplings, with each of the couplings configured to optically communicate with an optical fiber cable. Each of the couplings is moveable between a patching position and a stowed position so that, in the patching position, each of the couplings are configured to receive a patch cord connector in a first direction, thereby allowing the patch cord to optically communicate with an optical fiber cable. In the stowed position, the cables of patch cords engaging the couplings are directed toward the mounting surface in a second direction. Preferably, the first direction and the second direction are oriented toward the mounting surface. A method aspect of the invention is also presented.