Explore cutting-edge technology at Gail Borden's Tech Fair March 1

Visitors will be able to discover the latest technology from Microsoft, find out about technology that can be checked out, and learn how local organizations use technology to help the community at Gail Borden Public Library's first Tech Fair from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, March 1.

Families are invited to try out and learn about library technology such as 3-D printers, GoPros, virtual reality, green screen selfies, robot building, audio recording and more.

Advocate Sherman Hospital will demonstrate its CardioMEMS heart technology and the Family Birthing Center's "Baby Hal," who helps nurses train for different situations.

Members of the Elgin Fire Department Rescue Team will be talking about technology they use during practice and rescue dives.

"We want our community to learn about exciting new technology that can enrich lives and make some of those routine tasks easier to accomplish," said Gail Borden Library Executive Director Carole Medal.

"Technology changes so quickly that it is often difficult to keep up. A library is the perfect place for families to visit and learn about new products," Medal said.

Gail Borden Library's KidSpace will showcase a variety of fun technology toys such as Makey Makey and LEGO WeDo robot-building kits, a 3-D printer, and Starlings, a wearable device for parents to keep track of words spoken to babies that helps assist with early literacy.

Visitors also will learn about devices such as Roku, Pokemon Go chips and Wi-Fi hot spots that can be checked out to stream movies and TV shows on the go.

Electronic recording equipment from the library's digital studio will be on display. Librarians will show how families can digitize old photos, slides, negatives, movies and documents from its Preservation Station.

Also, families will have opportunities to learn about technology that can assist in their everyday lives such as tutor.com and the City of Elgin's 311 app.

The free fair will be held at the main library, 270 N. Grove Ave., Elgin. There will be drawings for chances to win prizes.

Participants of the technology fair will be: Advocate Sherman Hospital, City of Elgin, Elgin Police Department, Elgin Fire Department Water Rescue Team, Fabric Images, Gail Borden Public Library, got robot? FIRST Tech Challenge Robotics Team, L.L. Bean, Microsoft and Tutor.com.

For more information, visit gailborden.info/techfair.