Algonquin library to host its first 'Maker Fair' Sept. 24
On Saturday, Sept. 24, the Algonquin Area Public Library will host a Maker Fair from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Harnish Main Library, 2600 Harnish Drive, Algonquin. Everyone is welcome to this all-ages celebration of technology and crafting.
The library will be packed with demonstrations, workshops, and hands-on activities including rocketry, sewing machines, Sphero robots, button making, a vinyl cutter, and Lego WeDo Construction.
Attendees can enter drawings for a Fitbit Charge HR, a Sphero 2.0 robot, a Magnetic Stick N Stack set, a Singer 4411 sewing machine, and more. The Trail Dawgs food wagon will be in the library's parking lot from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. serving hot dogs, brats, and burgers, while supplies last.
"We are so excited to bring a Maker Fair to the community and introduce people to cool technologies and gadgets," says Alison Tseng, Youth Services technology librarian.
"We hope this event will inspire creativity and invention in kids and adults as the library strives to become an essential resource and collaboration space for all kinds of 'makers.'"
The day's demonstration schedule includes:
• 10 a.m.: Barnes and Noble Lego demonstration
• 11 a.m.: Lego WeDo Construction
• 11:20 a.m.: Makey Makey Invention Kits
• 11:40 a.m.: Sphero Robots
• Noon: Rocketry
• 1 p.m.: Yarn Spinning
• 1:30 p.m.: Sewing machine demonstration
• 2 p.m.: 3-D Printer Demo
• 3 p.m.: KEVA Plank Competition
More than 15 interactive stations will be open throughout the day. Attendees will receive a program "passport" at the main entrance, which they can have stamped at various demonstrations and tables to enter the drawing. Winners will be notified by Tuesday, Sept. 28.
Historically, libraries have been viewed as a resource for learning and knowledge in the form of books and programs. For many residents, the Maker Fair will serve as an introduction to the many experiential learning possibilities at the library.
"We are proud to showcase our collection of tools and technologies available to serve the educational and recreational needs of our community," said Executive Director Stephen Bero.
"In fact, our upcoming renovation project features new spaces for and greater patron access to many of the tools and gadgets featured at the Maker Fair."
This event is open to all residents of Algonquin, Lake in the Hills, and surrounding communities. Registration is not required. For details, call (847) 458-3060 or visit www.aapld.org or www.facebook.com/aapld.