PHILADELPHIA, PA — Gale, a part of the Cengage Group, has partnered with GetSetUp to introduce Gale Presents: GetSetUp, a resource that offers live and on-demand classes designed to engage older adults through public libraries. This new platform aims to support libraries in delivering meaningful programming while addressing the growing needs of the aging population.
With 23% of the U.S. population projected to be over 65 years old by 2050, public libraries face increasing demand for resources tailored to this demographic. Gale Presents: GetSetUp provides a solution by offering up to 300 rotating classes covering topics like digital literacy, wellness, hobbies, and retirement planning. Classes such as “Online Safety” and “Better Balance in Minutes” emphasize practical skills, while others, including “Watercolor Studio,” encourage creativity and connection. New classes are added monthly, ensuring variety and relevance.
“Gale is deeply committed to supporting lifelong learning and community engagement, and our partnership with GetSetUp aims to ensure that libraries of all sizes, in all types of communities—especially those in resource-constrained environments—can easily deliver engaging live and on-demand classes to adults aged 55 and up,” said Brian Risse, vice president for Gale and Thorndike Sales.
The platform prioritizes accessibility with features like translator options in English, Spanish, Mandarin, and Hindi, as well as closed captioning, screen reader compatibility, and adjustable text sizes. Additionally, Peer Guides, who are older adults themselves, lead the classes, fostering a welcoming and relatable learning environment.
Lawrence Kosick, president and co-founder of GetSetUp, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration. “We are thrilled to partner with Gale to bring GetSetUp to public library patrons. Together, we can make a significant impact on the lives of older adults. By providing easily accessible opportunities for physical, mental, and social growth, we deliver the skills and knowledge that older adults need to participate in their communities with a renewed sense of joy, purpose, and fulfillment.”
Libraries can also utilize the platform to enhance their offerings. For instance, a library could host a live Tai Chi class using GetSetUp’s resources without needing to hire an instructor. According to Suzy Murray, Electronic Resources Selection Specialist at Sacramento Public Library, “GetSetUp supports our health literacy initiatives and helps us address the epidemic of loneliness among older adults. The live classes are fantastic, and the instructors are experts in their fields, often in the same age range as our patrons, which makes the experience even more relatable. The breadth of content—from health topics to technology help to the arts—means there’s always something new for our community and opportunities for social engagement. It’s a unique resource that truly helps us connect with older adults in meaningful ways.”
Through this initiative, Gale and GetSetUp are helping libraries serve as pivotal resources for older adults, enabling lifelong learning, community connection, and personal growth. For more information, visit Gale.com/GetSetUp.
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