TAVARES — The public is invited to celebrate and learn about geographic information system (GIS) technology with the Lake County Department of Information Technology, GIS Division, during GIS Day on Wednesday, Nov. 18, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the rotunda of the Lake County Administration Building, located at 315 W. Main St., Tavares.

Held each year on the Wednesday of National Geographic Society’s Geography Awareness Week (Nov. 16–20), GIS Day is a global event that celebrates GIS technology, which brings countless benefits to the world. Lake County’s event provides an opportunity for those curious about GIS to see its applications in action. An agenda for the Lake County GIS Day includes:

• 10 a.m. — Map gallery opens
• 10:30 a.m. — Refreshments and meet & greet with Lake County GIS staff
• 11 a.m. — Demonstrations & presentations
• 2 p.m. — Prize drawing

A GIS is a computer-based mapping tool that takes information from a database about a location, such as streets, buildings, water features and terrain, and turns it into visual layers. The ability to see geographic features on a map gives users a better understanding of a particular location, enabling planners, analysts and others to make informed decisions about their communities.

“Although many people may not be aware of it, GIS touches their lives daily,” said Kevin Willis, Director of the Lake County GIS Division. “It is used throughout the world to solve problems related to the environment, health care, land use, business efficiency, education and public safety.”

For more information about Lake County’s GIS Day or the Lake County GIS Division, call (352) 343-9775.