Laura Klinke, Director of the Sanger Public Library, envisions her institution as "the living room of the community" – a vibrant gathering place where residents dance, watch movies, study, and connect. Far beyond traditional book lending, Sanger's library offers an expanding array of services from hotspots and STEM kits to cognitive care resources and board games.

With Sanger's growth bringing young families alongside longtime residents, Klinke and her passionate staff have strategically developed programming for every life stage. While preschool story times have always been popular, they've expanded to serve the "awkward years" of middle school, high school students planning their futures, and adults in their 20s through retirement. Their innovative offerings range from Kids Can Cook classes and puzzle races to aluminum pours and period parties in collaboration with TWU Nursing.

What library school never prepared Klinke for was the significant social work component of modern library service. Staff regularly help patrons in crisis access essential services through partnerships with organizations like Denton County United Way. This personal touch defines Sanger's approach, where staff pride themselves on knowing patrons by name and witnessing families grow over time. Digital resources like Cloud Library and Peterson's career prep materials complement their physical collection, while participation in a six-library consortium allows resource sharing across communities. Anyone – not just Sanger residents – can get a library card and access these valuable resources.

Looking ahead, Klinke dreams of an outreach vehicle to bring library services directly into neighborhoods. Whether through volunteering, joining Friends of the Library, or simply spreading the word about available resources, community members can help support this vision of a library that truly serves everyone from birth through retirement. Visit SangerLibrary.org to discover everything your community living room has to offer!

You have been listening to The 266 Express, the official podcast of Sanger, TX. IF you have comments or suggestions, please send them to dgreen@sangertexas.org

Ever wondered what truly makes a farmers market the beating heart of a small town? In our conversation with Amber Whitworth-Spagner, Director of the Sanger Farmers Market, we discover how a simple agricultural marketplace has transformed downtown Sanger into a vibrant community hub where nearly 1,000 visitors now gather on market days.

Amber shares the remarkable journey of relocating the market from its previous location to downtown's beautiful square, creating an atmosphere she describes as "like nothing else." The market has stayed true to its agricultural roots while expanding to feature an impressive variety of local treasures – from dairy, eggs and meats (including bison!) to artisanal crafts, tamales, pasta, cheesecake, and ginger beer. There's something for everyone at this certified Texas farmers market.

The downtown location has been transformative, providing vendors with protection from dust and wind, access to electricity, and improved accessibility. Downtown businesses have embraced the market, reporting increased revenue on market days and supporting its continued growth. Most touching is Amber's revelation that visiting vendors have fallen so in love with Sanger's welcoming community that many are looking to relocate their homes and businesses to the town permanently.

Looking ahead, the market has exciting plans including specialized themed markets, moonlight markets running from 6-10pm, agricultural education events, and potentially a community garden and homesteading classes. The market operates March through November on first and third Saturdays and third Sundays.

Ready to experience this community cornerstone yourself? Visit www.thefarmerswifemarkets.com or follow DS_FarmersMarket on social media for updates. As Amber says, "Come to the farmers market and support your local community. The atmosphere is really great. I feel alive whenever I'm there."

Connect with the Downtown Sanger Farmer's Market:

Facebook: Downtown Sanger Farmers Market

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088718678593

Instagram: @ds_farmersmarket

https://www.instagram.com/ds_farmersmarket/

TikTok: @ds_farmersmarket

https://www.tiktok.com/@ds_farmersmarket

YouTube: @dsfarmersmarket

https://www.youtube.com/@dsfarmersmarket

Website: www.thefarmerswifemarkets.com

You have been listening to The 266 Express, the official podcast of Sanger, TX. IF you have comments or suggestions, please send them to dgreen@sangertexas.org

Dive into the vibrant world of local business with our latest podcast episode featuring Megan Moon, president of the Sanger Chamber of Commerce. We explore the significant role of the Chamber in supporting local businesses, advocating for economic development, and facilitating connections within the community. Megan shares her passion for fostering a thriving economic landscape, emphasizing every local business's importance in the broader context of community success.

Listeners will uncover how the Chamber serves as a vital resource for networking opportunities, educational events, and essential advocacy efforts. Megan sheds light on the importance of shopping local, explaining how every dollar spent recirculates back into Sanger, bolstering local infrastructures, and services.

Engaging with the Chamber isn't just about membership; it’s about creating a dynamic ecosystem where businesses thrive together. With useful insights on getting involved in the Chamber and maximizing available resources, this episode offers a roadmap to success for both new entrepreneurs and established businesses. Join us as we discuss upcoming events that are essential for networking and community engagement.

Ready to become part of a community that prioritizes growth and collaboration? Tune in and learn how you can support local businesses and help Sanger flourish! Don't forget to subscribe, share your thoughts, and leave a review!

You have been listening to The 266 Express, the official podcast of Sanger, TX. IF you have comments or suggestions, please send them to dgreen@sangertexas.org