U.S. closes main Canadian access to historic library

The U.S. government decided to close the primary access point for Canadians to the Haskell Free Library and Opera House, a notable landmark straddling the Quebec-Vermont border. Town and library officials from Stanstead, Quebec, asserted that this decision marks the end of over a century of unwritten agreement allowing free access from Canada without the need for passports or visas. This change is occurring in a climate of increasing tensions between the United States and Canada, leading to strong emotional reactions from residents of both countries. Sylvie Boudreau, the library’s board president, expressed disappointment, emphasizing how the closure impacts cross-border cooperation, which has long characterized the relationship between the two nations. Many in the community view the library not simply as a building but as a symbol of friendship and collaboration. The library has served as a place for social interaction without the barriers typically enforced by international borders. The new policy, established by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), restricts access to the library to card holders and employees only. Many Canadians wishing to visit the library will have to access it through a back entrance located on the Canadian side, across an area described as muddy. This change is set to be implemented shortly, further reinforcing the border and diminishing the spirit of accessibility fostered for over a century. The library is currently seeking to gather funds through a GoFundMe campaign to create a more accessible route for visitors. Mayor Jody Stone of Stanstead expressed his sadness over this decision, indicating a sense of loss in U.S.-Canada relations. He underscored that despite this bureaucratic setback, the communities of Stanstead and Derby Line would continue to function as partners. The collaborative spirit between these towns has included shared municipal services and facilities, showcasing an enduring bond that a policy change may not easily sever. As emotional responses flow from the community, many hope to see the historic values represented by the library endure despite the new restrictions.