Equip Elders with Essential Technology Skills at Your Library: GetSetUp brings the expertise
Libraries to Introduce Digital Learning Platform for Senior Citizens
Public libraries are increasingly recognizing the significant impact they can make by catering to their growing population of older adults, many of whom are eager to learn, socialize, and enhance their digital skills. However, traditional library programming often presents staff-intensive challenges, and older adults may face barriers, such as transportation or technology comfort.
To address these challenges, the company presents GetSetUp, an online learning platform designed explicitly for adults aged 55 and above. This accessible resource enables libraries to offer beneficial digital learning experiences to older adults, promoting their quality of life, social connections, and lifelong engagement, without draining programming resources or staff.
Key Features and Real-world Benefits
GetSetUp offers a comprehensive catalog of live and on-demand classes, short videos, and articles on various topics, including technology, wellness, finance, cooking, travel, and more. The platform features social, peer-led learning through older adult instructors, creating a comfortable and engaging environment for learners to connect, ask questions, and feel supported. Live and on-demand options allow users to learn flexibly and at their own pace, either at home or in the library. Furthermore, GetSetUp supports older adults in building digital literacy and wellness skills, essential for independence and overall well-being.
Libraries can expect Turnkey onboarding, staff training, marketing templates, and usage reporting, ensuring their team can focus on making a tangible impact.
Platform Highlights
GetSetUp provides a user-friendly, flexible, and comfortable platform for older adults to learn, connect, and thrive. Features include a personalized class dashboard, topic-based discovery, community engagement options, multilingual access, and a built-in digital assistant to guide users.
The Growing Demand for Library Programs for Older Adults
As the aging population continues to grow, public libraries are witnessing an increased demand for relevant and accessible programs for adults aged 55 and above. The numbers speak for themselves:
- By 2060, the 65+ population is expected to double.
- 91% of adults aged 50 and above use smartphones, requiring support.
- Libraries engaging older adults create loyal visitors and advocates.
GetSetUp is not just another digital resource; it's a community-building tool that bridges the digital divide and helps older adults live more fulfilling lives. In addition to independent use, libraries can utilize GetSetUp for in-person programming events, such as streaming live or recorded classes in a meeting room, fostering shared learning experiences and further connections among older adults.
Quotes from GetSetUp Users
These are the thoughts of some GetSetUp users:
- Diane from California: "The LaVerne library is one of my best friends, and they sent me information about GetSetUp. When I saw all these classes, I was excited to learn how to use technology. Because of my physical situation, most of my work is done online, and I have a lot to learn about technology."
- Joe from Vermont: "Some people love taking live classes, but for me, I like having the option to watch replays... I'm never sure if I'm in the mood for a [live] class, and I don't like canceling, so having on-demand content is perfect."
Availability and Contact
GetSetUp is set to launch for public libraries starting May 1, 2025. Libraries are encouraged to connect with the company's representative to learn more or schedule an interactive demo.
[1] Aging Advances, Center for the Future of Libraries, American Library Association.[2] Jonathan Vespa, Lauren Medina, and David M. Armstrong, "Demographic Turning Points for the United States: Population Projections for 2020 to 2060," United States Census Bureau, February 2020.[3] Brittne Kakulla, "Older Adults Keep Pace on Tech Usage," AARP.org, January 2020.[4] Melinda Rietkerk, "Best Practices for Engaging Seniors at the Library," Public Libraries Online, December 2024.
- Public libraries, in response to the growing older adult population, are implementing the digital learning platform, GetSetUp, to cater to their diverse needs and interests.
- GetSetUp offers a variety of classes, videos, and articles on topics such as technology, wellness, finance, cooking, travel, and more, promoting digital literacy, social connections, and lifelong engagement for senior citizens.
- Libraries can expect turnkey onboarding, staff training, marketing templates, and usage reporting with GetSetUp, ensuring efficient and effective implementation.
- GetSetUp provides a user-friendly platform with features like a personalized class dashboard, multilingual access, and a digital assistant, making it an ideal resource for senior citizens to improve their digital literacy, health-and-wellness, and overall lifestyle, bridging the digital divide and fostering a sense of community.
