Tama Library Director Kris Collins and Tama EMS Administrator Jimmy Hicklin pose with Iowa Aircare Helicopter and its pilots. PHOTO BY THE DAVIS BUNCH

A semi, a garbage truck, a helicopter, and a firetruck park next to a library, that’s not the start of a joke, but Touch A Truck Nite on June 27. With kids and adults alike, running about looking in awe at all of the equipment on display, the Tama Library hosted event was easily a success.

“It was a great night and we appreciate all the support from the Tama City Mayor, Brian Hanus, from the EMS, Fire, Police, and City Works Departments. We are grateful for the businesses who brought equipment and for all of the families who came to enjoy hotdogs, ice cream, and some good old fashioned summertime fun in a small town,” Tama Library Director Kris Collins said.

This was the first Touch a Truck event, but it may not be the last.

“We had enthusiasm from the partners who brought equipment and I think we can line up more for another try at this in the future. I am lucky to have such a great staff and some volunteers who worked and helped make the event fun for everyone,” Collins said. “Initially, this was a grant application from Corteva. While I am not yet sure if we received the funding, the event seemed too fun not to try and do anyway. I’d love to add a summer safety component to this if we do it again. That would give kids and parents information and get our young people healthier and safer tips for navigating through summertime.”

The truck event was just a single offering by the library, whose calendar is filled with different activities. Collins laid out the whole list of summer functions.

Children and families explore semi trucks, tractors, fire trucks, and others at the Touch A Truck Event. PHOTO BY THE DAVIS BUNCH

“We have just kicked off our Summer Reading Program with a full house of kids. We have over 65 kids registered this year to attend a PK-2 Tuesday program and a 3rd-7th Thursday program. That will be a lot of fun and bring kids many reading and play opportunities at the library,” she said. “We still host Tuesday and Friday coffee break at 10:00, Storytime every Monday 10:30 and Friday 11:00, and Chess for MS kids every Wednesday at 1:00. And there is always a noon family/kid movie on Saturdays. I will be coordinating with STC Elementary in August for a visit from the 2025 Summer School Program.”

The library also has new books on its shelves just waiting to be read in the summer sun. As director Collins stated, “Oh, yeah, and we have some of the new release summer books too! I challenge everyone in Tama to get a library card this summer! I think we can do it!”

Families enjoy refreshments and treats at the Touch A Truck Event. PHOTO BY THE DAVIS BUNCH

Families and children got to explore the air care helicopter and take pictures at the event. PHOTO BY THE DAVIS BUNCH