In a move sparking concern on both sides of the border, U.S. officials have imposed restrictions on Canadian access to the iconic Haskell Free Library and Opera House, located on the Canada-U.S. border in Stanstead, Quebec, and Derby Line, Vermont.
The unique building, famously straddling the international boundary, has long symbolized cross-border unity. However, recent decisions by U.S. authorities now limit Canadian visitors’ ability to enter the library without undergoing formal border procedures.
Local officials and residents expressed disappointment over the restrictions, emphasizing the library’s role as a cultural and historical landmark. “The Haskell Library has always stood as a beacon of friendship between our two nations. This decision undermines that spirit,” said a representative from the Stanstead municipality.
While U.S. Customs and Border Protection cited security concerns as the reason for the changes, Canadian officials are reportedly in discussions to resolve the issue and restore the traditional access enjoyed by both communities.
The library, established in 1904, was intentionally built on the border to serve both Canadians and Americans. Its reading room lies in Canada, while the opera stage is in the U.S., with visitors historically moving freely between the two countries without crossing official border checkpoints.
As negotiations continue, community members on both sides remain hopeful that the landmark’s legacy of cross-border unity will prevail.