| By Gale Staff |
Public libraries have long been champions of lifelong learning, and now they can expand their impact with Gale Presents: GetSetUp—a dynamic online platform designed specifically for older adults.
This engaging resource offers live and on-demand interactive classes led by peers, covering everything from technology and wellness to travel and creative pursuits. With a mission to empower older learners to thrive in today’s digital world, GetSetUp helps users build confidence, stay connected, and explore new interests—all from the comfort of home. Libraries can now offer their patrons a trusted, accessible way to keep learning, growing, and engaging with their communities.
Hear from Lila, a library patron from California.
When Lila Z. discovered GetSetUp through a local library in the San Francisco Bay Area, she was thrilled with what she found. She embraced the opportunity to master technologies such as her Mac computer, which she never had time to learn when she was working.
Before retirement, Lila served as a port authority compliance administrator. She always wished she could have more time to learn different types of software and technology, but work duties and time restraints got in the way.
“We had an IT dept that would assist us. We never really had a moment to learn as well as we’d like to learn. Time doesn’t allow it unless you’re a quick study. So, the tech classes have been extremely helpful. Now that I can take the time, I say to myself, ‘Oh, so that’s how you do that.’”
Lila retired just before the pandemic struck, and her plans immediately stalled because of shutdowns and travel restrictions.
“I retired with thoughts of being able to do all kinds of things and then couldn’t, obviously. So, needless to say, like everyone else, I felt pretty shocked, dumbfounded, and useless.”
That’s why she’s elated to immerse herself in a variety of GetSetUp classes. In addition to the technology guidance, she enjoys classes on travel, cooking, photography, and more. She loves the enthusiasm and commitment of the instructors, and she also learns from their responses to questions that other learners ask during class sessions.
“You can tell how passionate some of the instructors are, and there’s no dumb question. [GetSetUp Guide] Donna did a class on smart TVs. One lady asked, ‘Do I have a smart TV? Because I don’t know what a smart TV is.’ And Donna explained to her what a smart TV is. She walked us through what each TV brand does and how they’re set up. She even gave us comparison charts.”
Lila has also enjoyed travel and exploration classes with GetSetUp Guides Russ and Sue.
“Sue is the sweetest woman. She’ll talk about castles, tunnels, and caves. Her classes on castles in Germany were fascinating. And Russ took us on virtual tours, taught us how to travel solo, how to do Airbnb, and showed us all these wonderful trips.”
Lila wishes she had discovered GetSetUp sooner, but she finds comfort and connection in the familiar faces and names in the virtual classes.
“GSU is pretty much opening the world to you because of its variety. There is so much to learn. You’re not isolated. You have a world in front of you. You don’t have to be by yourself. I am a GetSetUp junkie!”
Lila’s story is just one of many that highlight the transformative power of GetSetUp. Whether it’s mastering a Mac, exploring castles in Germany, or simply connecting with others, this platform opens doors for older adults to rediscover their passions and potential.
Ready to bring this enriching experience to your patrons? Contact your Gale representative today to learn more about Gale Presents: GetSetUp or to request a free trial for your library.
