Gale’s GetSetUp: Empowering Senior Library Users
In an era where digital literacy has become essential for daily life, many adults over 55 face significant barriers to accessing technology and online resources. Recognizing this
challenge, Gale, a leading provider of library databases and educational resources, has partnered with GetSetUp to offer public libraries a comprehensive solution that bridges the digital divide for older adults. This innovative collaboration represents a transformative approach to serving the growing population of senior library users.
A Timely Partnership for Growing Needs
The partnership between Gale and GetSetUp comes at a crucial time. According to the Population Reference Bureau, by 2034, older adults will outnumber children for the first time in U.S. history. As a result, libraries are being increasingly called upon to serve this demographic (1). The collaboration addresses this need by offering a turnkey solution that enables libraries to better serve their older population within the library and at home without the need for additional staff or complex planning (1).
Gale joined forces with GetSetUp, a frictionless platform that offers live and on-demand classes to improve wellness, teach digital literacy, and foster social connections (2). This partnership was officially announced in June 2025, providing libraries with immediate access to a comprehensive learning platform designed specifically for adults aged 55 and older.
Comprehensive Learning Opportunities
The Gale Presents: GetSetUp platform offers an extensive catalog of educational content tailored to senior learners. The platform provides a catalog of over 5,000 live and on-demand classes, short videos, and articles covering a wide range of topics (3). This vast library of content covers everything from basic computer skills to advanced wellness programs, ensuring that senior library users can find relevant learning opportunities regardless of their current skill level.
The platform’s flexibility is one of its key strengths. Classes are designed with flexibility in mind, allowing patrons to learn at their own pace, at any time, and from any device (4).
This accessibility ensures that seniors can engage with learning materials, whether they’re at the library, at home, or anywhere with an internet connection.
Bridging the Digital Divide
One of the most significant benefits of Gale’s GetSetUp for senior library users is its focus on digital literacy. For adults over 55, GetSetUp bridges the digital divide with practical, tech-focused classes, such as “Online Safety: Protect Your Personal Information” (5). These classes address real-world concerns that many older adults face when navigating the digital landscape, from protecting personal information to understanding how to use modern devices safely.
The platform’s approach to digital literacy goes beyond basic computer skills. Through strategic partnerships and a supportive learning environment, the program empowers 
learners to acquire essential digital skills, enhance their economic opportunities, and remain connected to their communities (6). This comprehensive approach ensures that senior library users not only learn how to use technology but also understand how to leverage it for personal and professional advancement.
Promoting Health and Wellness
Beyond digital literacy, GetSetUp places significant emphasis on wellness and health education for older adults. GetSetUp’s Fall Prevention Program provides older adults with practical strategies and exercises to prevent falls (7), addressing a critical health concern for this demographic. The platform also offers classes on nutrition, exercise, mental health, and other wellness topics that help seniors maintain their independence and quality of life.
The wellness components of the platform are particularly valuable for library users who may not have access to other health education resources. Libraries can now offer their senior patrons comprehensive wellness programming without the need for specialized staff or facilities.
Fostering Social Connections
One of the most innovative aspects of GetSetUp is its focus on community building and social interaction. The platform includes social in-person video sessions (3) that allow senior learners to connect with peers across the country. Access to free classes on topics ranging from cooking to wellness and gardening, as well as daily social hours, helps older adults develop skills, improve fitness, express their creativity, and form new connections (8).
This social component addresses the growing concern of isolation among older adults, particularly those with limited mobility or transportation options. By providing virtual
social opportunities through their local library, seniors can maintain meaningful connections while learning new skills.
Practical Benefits for Libraries
For libraries serving senior populations, Gale’s GetSetUp offers numerous practical advantages. The platform requires minimal setup and maintenance, allowing library staff to focus on patron support rather than technical management. Libraries can provide comprehensive programming for older adults without the need for additional classroom space, specialized equipment, or expert instructors.
The partnership also helps libraries demonstrate their value to community stakeholders by providing measurable outcomes. Users report that the programs helped them build healthier habits, reduce feelings of loneliness, improve social connections, and acquire new digital skills to support their daily lives (9).
Looking Forward
As the population of older adults continues to grow, libraries that embrace innovative solutions like Gale’s GetSetUp will be better positioned to serve their communities effectively. The platform represents a forward-thinking approach to senior services, combining education, technology, wellness, and community building in a single, accessible resource.
For senior library users, GetSetUp offers more than just classes—it provides a pathway to continued learning, social connection, and independence in an increasingly digital world. By partnering with Gale and GetSetUp, libraries can ensure that their older adult patrons have access to the tools and knowledge they need to thrive in the modern age.
References:
- Stephen’s Lighthouse. (2025, June 26). Gale Partners with GetSetUp to Offer Public Libraries a Dynamic Collection of Live and On-Demand Classes for Older Adults. https://stephenslighthouse.com/2025/06/26/gale-partners-with-getsetup-to-offer-public-libraries-a-dynamic-collection-of-live-and-on-demand-classes-for-older-adults/
- NewsBreaks. (2025, July 3). Gale Presents: GetSetUp Offers Resources for Senior Patrons. https://newsbreaks.infotoday.com/Digest/Gale-Presents-GetSetUp-Offers-Resources-for-Senior-Patrons-170340.asp
- Gale. (2025). Empower Your Community with Adult Online Learning. https://www.gale.com/public/adult-online-learning-suite
- Gale. (2025). Empower Older Adults with Online Learning | Gale Presents: GetSetUp for Libraries. https://www.gale.com/elearning/getsetup
- Business Wire. (2025, June 25). Gale Partners with GetSetUp to Offer Public Libraries a Dynamic Collection of Live and On-Demand Classes for Older Adults. https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250625746424/en/Gale-Partners-with-GetSetUp-to-Offer-Public-Libraries-a-Dynamic-Collection-of-Live-and-On-Demand-Classes-for-Older-Adults
- GetSetUp. (2025). Digital Literacy – Solutions from GetSetUp. https://www.getsetup.com/solutions/digitalliteracy
- GetSetUp. (2025). Government Solutions for Aging Programs | Enhance Services with GetSetUp. https://www.getsetup.com/our-solutions/programs
- OECD Forum Network. (2023, March 7). Bridging the Digital Literary Gap is Essential for Equity in Aging. https://www.oecd-forum.org/posts/bridging-the-digital-literary-gap-is-essential-for-equity-in-aging
- GetSetUp. (2025). Home. https://www.getsetup.com/