I also am in Iowa and in our county...the worst in the entire state....draws names and sends you a letter telling you that you are on jury duty. Each day after 4 pm you have to call to find out if you are needed the next day or not. It was a royal pain for me since I worked 2nd shift at the time, but I got lucky and didn't have to serve...was settled out of court.
I'm sorry that you can't make plans...been there and it really isn't fun at all. Too bad that you can't give a cell number for them if you are on call...sort of like Dr's and such. I know...nice thought right? lol