Crowds of families and young children on summer break headed to the Meridian-Lauderdale County Public Library Tuesday as it hosted animals from the Hattiesburg Zoo as part of its summer programs.

The children were able to touch a tortoise and see both a hedgehog and skink as zoo staff talked about each creature and its habitat and needs. Zoo staff also answered questions from the audience and discussed the animals’ behavior.

Library Program Coordinator Elizabeth Jolly said the turnout for Tuesday’s event exceeded expectations, and a second showing of the animals was added to the day’s schedule to give everyone a chance to participate.