Hagley Museum and Library spotlights robots and how they work during its 2016 Invention Convention on Jan. 16, 17, and 18.  From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., hands-on activities and experiments will spark curiosity and creativity in children and parents. Admission, including supplies, is free for Hagley members, $6 per child ages 4 to 14, $8 for those 15 and older, and free for children 3 and younger. Use Hagley’s Buck Road East entrance off Route 100.

Robots have explored the far reaches of space, the depths of the oceans, and the inner workings of the human body. At the Robotics Rocks Invention Convention, kids and their parents will gain an understanding of how the robots we’ve all seen on television and in real life actually work. This event is filled with demonstrations, hands-on engineering challenges, and in-person conversations with professionals who use robots in their daily work. For those further interested in how robots are used in different professional fields, visitors will have the chance to discover how the Wilmington Police Department uses bomb robots to dispose of explosive devices. The event’s hands-on activity comes as visitors are able to create a series of simple Hagley “robots” using hydraulic pumps, gears, and circuits.

“Robots have captured our imagination for decades.  At this year’s Invention Convention, visitors will get to see them operating up close and build their own basic robot,” said Jeff Durst, education program manager at Hagley.

Science shows and live demonstrations serve to engage and captivate the audience. Featured science shows include “Cool Chemistry” and the Franklin Institute’s “Motions and Machines.”

At the event’s Tinkering Tables, children can safely take apart an electronic gadget to see what it is made of and how it is constructed internally. At Create-an-Invention, children can use everyday household items to make an invention that will earn them a Hagley “patent.” Parents and children are also welcome to explore the Science Fair. Community partners will conduct interactive demonstrations and experiments, and display information on their projects. Much of the hands-on fun seen here can be duplicated at home. Visitors will also be able to handle a space suit built by local company ILC Dover.

For more information and a full schedule of activities and Science Shows, visit www.hagley.org. The Belin House Organic Cafe at Hagley will provide family-friendly foods for purchase.