Trump Ends 100-Year-Old Tradition with Canada; Locals Call Decision Senseless
U.S. Move to Restrict Canadian Access to Border-Straddling Library Sparks Emotional Backlash
For over a century, the Haskell Free Library and Opera House, straddling the U.S.-Canada border between Stanstead, Quebec, and Derby Line, Vermont, has stood as a testament to cross-border unity—no passports needed.
On Friday, however, local officials revealed that U.S. authorities have abruptly ended this tradition, igniting a wave of grief and defiance in both communities amid strained bilateral ties.
Inside the library, where a taped line on the floor marks the international boundary, strangers Pauline Lussier from Canada and Chris Blais from the U.S. met for the first time, embracing across the divide. Holding their respective flags, Blais declared, “A line doesn’t separate us, it never has.” She lamented the change, recalling how children once crossed freely. “There’s no reason for this,” she added. Historically, visitors mingled across the line, provided they exited to their home country. Barack Obama praised this harmony in 2016, quoting a local: “We’re two different countries, but we’re like one big town.”
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) confirmed the shift, citing security concerns. Starting soon, only library cardholders and staff can cross from Canada to the U.S. entrance; by October 1, all Canadians must use a border checkpoint, with exceptions for emergencies and officials. CBP acknowledged the library’s “unique landmark” status but pointed to “illicit cross-border activity,” including a recent firearm smuggling attempt. Non-members will now enter via a Canadian back door, prompting the library to launch a GoFundMe for $100,000 CAD ($69,000 USD) to fund accessibility upgrades.
Stanstead Mayor Jody Stone called the decision senseless, yet vowed it wouldn’t fracture the towns’ bond. “Stanstead and Derby Line are partners and friends forever,” he insisted. Residents, some tearful, protested at the border, with American Penny Thomas waving a “Keep Haskell Open” sign adorned with a maple leaf. The move follows U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s February visit, where she echoed President Trump’s “51st state” taunts, amplifying tensions already stoked by trade disputes. For now, this cherished symbol of friendship faces an uncertain future.
