“Gale Presents: GetSetUp” offers the growing older adult population lifelong learning, wellness, and community. With the number of Americans aged 65 and older projected to increase by 24 million by 2050, Salem Public Library is proud to announce the availability of GetSetUp, a proven digital resource designed to support the growing needs of older adults across our community.
According to the 2024 Active Aging Report, older adults are increasingly turning to digital tools for health, wellness, and lifelong learning as evidenced by their participation in over 5.27 million GetSetUp online activities last year. To meet their needs, Salem Public Library is offering free access to this innovative platform built specifically for adults aged 55 and over.
“We’re excited to bring this empowering resource to our patrons,” said Ann Tripp, Library Director at Salem Public Library. “GetSetUp helps older adults stay mentally sharp, socially connected, and physically active—all from the comfort of home.”
Key Features of Gale Presents: GetSetUp:
A rotating catalog of 5,000+ live and on-demand classes, short videos, and articles on topics like digital literacy, fitness, nutrition, mental wellness, travel, and retirement planning.
Peer-led instruction by older adult educators who understand the unique learning styles of their audience.
Built-in community features that foster social interaction and reduce isolation.
Flexible, self-paced learning accessible on smartphones, tablets, and computers.
Support from Helen, an AI assistant that helps users find classes, answer questions, and stay engaged.
Why It Matters Now:
28% (16.2 million) of older adults live alone, making social connection more important than ever.3
45.9% of GetSetUp surveyed users engage in daily physical activity, and many active agers are seeking new ways to stay healthy.
Nearly 900,000 digital literacy classes were taken through GetSetUp in 2023 on topics including online banking, telemedicine, and smart device usage, showing a strong desire to stay informed and tech fluent in today’s world.4
Salem Public Library is committed to supporting the well-being of older adults in Salem, Virginia and the Roanoke Valley by offering inclusive, accessible, and engaging resources. Whether aging patrons are looking to learn a new skill, connect with others, or simply stay active, GetSetUp has something for everyone. With practical, tech-focused classes like “Online Safety: Protect Your Personal Information” and “Using Your Android Smartphone,” seniors can confidently navigate today’s rapidly changing digital environment. At the same time, courses such as “Ease the Ache with Gentle Stretches for Back Pain” and “Brain Boost: Keeping Young with Music” can help older adults stay mentally sharp, physically active, and creatively inspired—all while connecting with peers who share their interests and experiences.
How to Access:
Library cardholders can access GetSetUp for free by 1. Go to the Salem Public Library’s website, www.salemlibrary.info 2. Click on “Research” in the left-hand menu. 3.Click on “Resources for Topical Learning “under Research. 4. Click on “GetSetUp” (when pop-up window appears, click on “Proceed to Site.”) You will be prompted to set up a free account.
For questions about the GetSetUp database or any other library resource, contact the library at 540-375-3089.
Need computer, e-reader, iPad, or smartphone help? Drop in for Salem Library’s “What the Tech” office hours every Friday between 10am -noon.
