Keep them in the shade, don't overwater them, & plant as soon as possible:

The top of the rhizome at the base of the leaves should be exposed so that the iris isn't planted too deeply;
irises need excellent drainage & burying the rhizomes keeps them too wet, leading to rot.

Enjoy!

Ask your friend what type of iris they are. Since she said to keep them moist they may be Siberians or Japanese. The culture for these is quite different than beardeds.

Since you are zone 5 getting them planted as soon as possible is important --- to establish roots into your soil before frosts arrive.

Thanks for the advice!
I'm on my way to pick up soil for the planters thet go around the deck. Since I wasn't planning on irises & she needed to get rid of them, that's where they are going. I will definitely get them planted this evening or tomorrow at the latest.