“Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn.” —Benjamin Franklin

For many people, the word “learning” suggests passively listening to lectures or reading textbooks. This is especially true for those of us who were mainly educated in traditional classrooms. As it turns out, participating in your own learning may be easier, more convenient, and more fun than you think. There are plenty of opportunities to gain a new skill or discover fresh ideas about the world around you through active learning—starting at your library.

Programs at the public library in Eau Claire are most often based on participation. Involvement can lead to a higher success rate in learning about both new and familiar topics. The library designs programs to help participants connect with others in the community, learn stuff, and engage with experts. This emphasis on engagement supplies encouragement and inspiration to be the very best you can be.

Throughout the year, L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library hosts programs about topics of interest in our community, and those topics are as diverse as our neighbors themselves. This month, they include an interactive poetry event (“Writers’ Read,” a salute to the beat generation), a hands-on workshop on finding reliable health information online (“Health Online”), a horticulture class (“Hydrangeas 101”), and a make-and-take crafting session for adults (“Sashay Scarf”). Visit www.ecpubliclibrary.info/calendar to learn more, and to browse all library programs by intended age group and interest. By learning actively, you’ll have better long-term outcomes and more fun.

Speaking of having fun, check out this upcoming program: “Books & Beasts.” It’s a pop-up adoption event and book sale taking place from 2 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, March 9. Volunteers from the Eau Claire County Humane Association will bring animals to meet potential adoptive pet parents, and the Friends of the Library will offer animal-themed books for sale.

Every day is a new chance for learning and success. Now, go get it!