Trump Ends Canadians’ Access to Historic Library at Border

URGENT UPDATE: U.S. President Donald Trump has just announced the termination of a historic arrangement allowing Canadians to access the Haskell Free Library in Derby Line, Vermont, from Stanstead, Quebec. This significant change, which officially ends a long-standing symbol of U.S.-Canada unity, comes as part of efforts to combat “illicit cross-border activities.”

For over a century, residents of Stanstead have enjoyed unimpeded access to the library, walking through its doors without needing to pass through customs. However, as of now, workers are constructing a new entrance to accommodate Canadian visitors due to the abrupt policy reversal.

Local leaders express deep frustration over the announcement. Sylvie Boudreau, president of the library’s board of trustees, described the decision as igniting “a lot of anger on both sides.” She emphasized, “It’s the end of something,” highlighting the emotional toll on the community.

Historically, access to the library has faced restrictions, notably after the September 11, 2001 attacks and during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, this marks a definitive end to a unique cross-border arrangement that many residents cherished.

The announcement has elicited strong reactions from local residents. Jonas Horsky, a Derby Line local, shared his nostalgia for the days of open borders, stating, “We’ve always been united, but now we carry our passports. It wasn’t like this before.”

Canadian resident Erica Masotto, who works at a local boarding school, echoed these sentiments, expressing concern over the implications of this change. “Why this sudden mistrust?” she questioned, underscoring the symbolic weight this alteration carries.

The library’s situation reflects broader tensions in U.S.-Canada relations, exacerbated by Trump’s rhetoric around Canadian annexation and tariffs that have harmed key sectors. Recently, Prime Minister Mark Carney noted that the relationship between the two nations “will never be the same again,” as deep economic ties are severed.

Canadian travel to the U.S. has already seen a significant decline, with national statistics indicating a “marked decrease” in visitors. Local retiree Marc Samson confirmed this trend, stating, “We don’t go to the United States anymore,” despite the close proximity of the two towns. However, he remains hopeful that political changes could restore normalcy in the future.

This policy shift serves as “a physical end” to an era of closeness, according to Boudreau. Nonetheless, she believes that the spirit of friendship and community remains resilient, stating, “that has been strengthened by what happened.”

As residents adjust to this new reality, the construction of the library’s new entrance symbolizes a significant change in cross-border relations. The next steps remain uncertain, but the emotional impact of this decision is palpable in both Stanstead and Derby Line.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing situation that affects the deeply intertwined communities along the U.S.-Canada border.