Visitors will have an opportunity to learn how the ingenious design and capabilities of insects inspire innovations and inventions that improve people’s lives at Hagley Museum and Library’s 2018 Invention Convention, set for 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Jan. 13-15 at the museum, 200 Hagley Creek Road, Wilmington.

Families will learn how insects help scientists and others innovate in their fields of study.

This year’s theme will explore how insects influence technological innovations like drones, hearing aids and electronics. Visitors can also admire the artistry of maggots, see how insects help detectives solve crimes and learn about our local insect population. Hands-on activities and demonstrations will spark curiosity and creativity in children and parents.

On each day of the event, visitors can enjoy a science show, investigate the “insides” of an electronic gadget at the Tinkering Tables and express their creative side in the Create-an-Invention area. A Hagley “patent” will be issued for every invention. In the Science Fair, community partners will conduct interactive demonstrations and display information on their projects.

The Belin House Organic Cafe at Hagley will have lunch and refreshments available for purchase.

Admission is free for Hagley members; $6 for ages 4-14; $8 for those 15 and older; and free for ages 3 and younger. Visitors should use Hagley’s Buck Road East entrance — not the museum entrance — off Route 100 to the library and Soda House buildings.

For more, call 658-2400 or visit hagley.org.