First-Ever Maker Fair to Inspire Creativity, Introduce New Technologies

On Saturday, September 24, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the Algonquin Area Public Library District will host a Maker Fair at the Harnish Main Library, 2600 Harnish Drive, Algonquin. Everyone is welcome to this all-ages celebration of technology and crafting, according to a news release.

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 popular 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 is as follows:

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

12 p.m.: Rocketry

1 p.m. Yarn Spinning

1:30 p.m.: Sewing Machine Demonstration

2 p.m.: 3D 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, September 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,” notes 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.