Emotional Reactions Erupt as US Limits Canadian Access to Beloved Border-Straddling Library

STANSTEAD, Quebec (AP) — For over a century, residents of Stanstead, Quebec, have enjoyed easy access to Derby Line, Vermont, and the beloved Haskell Free Library and Opera House—no passport needed. However, that long-standing tradition is changing. U.S. authorities recently announced they will end this informal agreement, sparking strong emotions in both communities at an already tense time.

Inside the library, which symbolizes friendship between the two nations, Canadian Pauline Lussier and American Chris Blais embraced while standing on either side of the new border line taped on the floor. "A line doesn’t separate us, it never has," Blais said, holding an American flag, while Lussier held a Canadian one. Their children often crossed the border together effortlessly, and now, they fear that will change.

Historically, the library has let people mingle freely, a point highlighted by former President Barack Obama in 2016. He praised the library’s role in uniting communities, noting, “We’re two different countries, but we’re like one big town.”

But recent changes by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) mean only library card holders and employees can enter from the U.S. Starting October 1, Canadians will need to go through a checkpoint to access the library, unless they meet specific exemptions. While the CBP acknowledged the library as a "unique landmark," they cited security concerns due to a rise in illegal activities in the area.

Mayor Jody Stone of Stanstead expressed frustration over the decision, stating it "makes no sense," yet he remains optimistic about the bond between the two towns. He emphasized that despite these new restrictions, Stanstead and Derby Line will remain connected partners.

The emotional response from residents has been loud and clear. Some gathered near the border, displaying signs and expressing their heartbreak over the lost ease of entry. Community members like Penny Thomas, who held a sign saying "Keep Haskell open," showed how much the library means to them.

This decision has also sparked conversations on social media about border policies and their impact on small communities. Many online users highlighted how restrictions can strain friendships formed over generations.

As the library faces these new challenges, it has launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for necessary modifications, like adding a new parking lot and making it wheelchair accessible—estimated to cost around 100,000 CAD (about 69,000 USD).

In a world where borders can often divide, the Haskell Free Library and Opera House stands as a testament to community and connection. Although new regulations may complicate access, the heartfelt ties between these two towns remind us of the human spirit’s resilience and the lasting bond that can transcend borders.

To learn more about the history and significance of cross-border relationships, you can explore studies like this report from the Canadian Institute for Military and Veteran Health Research, which examines the impact of cross-border ties on health and community relations.

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Barack Obama, Donald Trump, Vermont, Canada, General news, VT State Wire, Government programs, Chris Blais, World news, Kristi Noem, Politics, United States government, Border security, Jody Stone, Penny Thomas, Canada government, World News