Maybe you're worried that your professional skills are falling behind. Or perhaps you've wanted to learn woodworking, knitting, or conversational Japanese and have no idea of where to start. Or maybe you're recently retired and considering ways to keep your mind and body active while you make new friends.

The solution can be simple: Take a class. Here are a few ways to return to the classroom, whether virtually or in person.

Check your local craft store. Big chains, such as Michaels or JOANN Fabric, usually have single-session and multisession crafting and sewing classes available. Mom-and-pop quilting and sewing shops might provide advanced instruction or even blocks of unstructured time to socialize while you work on your own project.

Visit your public library. Most public libraries offer activities and classes for people of all ages. Your library card also might provide access to online courses and webinars for everything from business to languages to university-style STEM classes.

Research community colleges. If you want a more-traditional academic experience or want to work on a degree or certificate, then research community colleges near you. Several states have drastically reduced or eliminated community college tuition to make it more accessible. Check with your state's education agency for more information and eligibility requirements.

Go virtual at your own pace. Although such eLearning platforms as Udemy, Skillshare, Coursera, and LinkedIn Learning don't offer accredited degrees or certificates, they can be great and cost-effective ways to pick up new skills at your own pace. Course quality can sometimes vary, so read reviews and research the instructors before you select a class and dive in.