North Tama Elementary student Felicity Breja (standing) chooses a book from the school’s new book vending machine located in the gym commons on Tuesday, May 24, under the watchful eyes of both her classmates and principal Susan Johnson (seated behind Breja). –Photo courtesy Terry Shay

North Tama Elementary held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Tuesday, May 24, to welcome a new book vending machine. Principal Susan Johnson cut the ribbon and welcomed the first users of the new machine. For the first round of books, staff members were asked to submit students’ names who have shown positive traits this year. Felicity Breja was the first student to put her token into the machine and choose a book. Several other students were also given the opportunity to choose books. The vending machine was purchased with a 2022 grant from the Tama County Community Foundation (TCCF). The books were purchased with funds from several donations, including the North Tama Parent Teacher Organization.