William Crooks
Sylvie Boudreau speaks to a large crowd gathered outside the Haskell Free Library, with the iconic building visible in the background, as the community shows its support in the wake of the closure of the Canadian access

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

At a press conference held on March 21, 2025, in Stanstead, near the Haskell Free Library and Opera House, hundreds of Canadians and dozens of Americans gathered to express their support for the iconic institution, which is facing an unprecedented closure of its Canadian access. The decision, announced on March 18, 2025, by U.S. authorities, has sparked outrage on both sides of the border and may threaten the future of this unique library that has long symbolized cross-border cooperation.

For over a century, the Haskell Free Library has stood as a beacon of cultural unity, straddling the border between Canada and the United States. The library’s main entrance is located in the U.S., with a rear exit accessible from Canada. Inside, a line on the floor marks the international boundary, allowing visitors to stand between the two countries. However, starting March 24, 2025, the Canadian access will be partially closed, and by October 1, 2025, it will be entirely shut down by U.S. authorities.

The closure has provoked strong reactions from local officials, with many expressing disbelief over the decision. “It is deeply regrettable that this closure, motivated by border control considerations and exacerbated by political tensions, is happening at the expense of the citizens who have relied on this cultural institution,” said Jody Stone, mayor of Stanstead. He emphasized that the library had long been a symbol of harmonious coexistence between Canada and the U.S.

Marie-Claude Bibeau, Member of Parliament for Compton-Stanstead, also addressed the gathering, expressing her concern over the decision. “Our border community is strong, and this decision only further solidifies our commitment to each other,” Bibeau said. She reassured the public that the Canadian government was already looking into ways to support the library, both through financial assistance and advocacy. “This library is not just a building—it’s a testament to the cooperation and friendship between Canada and the United States,” Bibeau added.

Sylvie Boudreau, president of the Haskell Free Library, explained that the library’s leadership had been preparing for such a situation. “Honestly, it was always in the back of my mind,” Boudreau shared in a later interview. She recounted how, after the library reopened following COVID-19 closures, U.S. authorities had already considered restricting access. “When we received the visit from [U.S. officials], I said, ‘It’s just a question of time.'” She acknowledged the growing security concerns and the library’s efforts to work with U.S. authorities to find a solution.

The justification for the closure was provided by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) citing security concerns. According to reporting from The Canadian Press, a statement from the CPB explained that access without inspection had been allowed in the past because of the library’s location, for the convenience of local populations. A continued rise in illicit cross-border activity and recent incidents, including smuggling attempts, prompted the agency to close the Canadian access to the library. The CBP’s statement, as reported by The Canadian Press, acknowledged the library’s unique role but emphasized the need for heightened security measures.

While the CBP made exceptions for law enforcement and emergency services, starting March 24, only library card holders and employees will be able to access the library from Canada. By October 1, Canadians will no longer be able to enter through the U.S. side without passing through a formal border checkpoint. For many, this change disrupts a long-standing relationship between the communities of Stanstead and Derby Line, Vermont.

Local residents have expressed their frustration, with many pointing to the decades of peaceful cross-border interaction facilitated by the library. “People have used this space for generations. This is a part of our community,” said Philip Dutil, a Stanstead councillor. He recalled his own memories of visiting the library and noted that it had been a vital resource for families on both sides of the border.

Rick Ufford-Chase, mayor of Newport, Vermont, also weighed in, agreeing the decision is a symbolic move with no real security justification. “There’s no reason for this,” Ufford-Chase said, emphasizing that the two communities have long shared resources, including municipal services and even a joint sports league for children. He added, “This decision is an attack on our shared community”.

Despite these setbacks, the Haskell Free Library remains committed to fulfilling its cultural mission. Boudreau has assured the community that efforts to adapt to the new reality are already underway. Plans include constructing a new Canadian entrance and making the library more accessible. The estimated cost of the infrastructure work is $100,000. The library has launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise the necessary funds, hoping that both Canadians and Americans will contribute to preserving this unique cultural landmark.

By press time, the campaign had already surpassed its goal, raising roughly $119,000.

In the wake of heightened tensions, the library has become a symbol of resilience and unity. “Whether you’re Canadian or American, it doesn’t matter here,” said Boudreau. “We should all be working to protect the history and purpose of this place.” The community remains hopeful that with continued support, the Haskell Free Library can adapt to the new restrictions and continue serving as a cross-border cultural hub for future generations.