For over a century, residents of Stanstead, Quebec, enjoyed easy access to the Haskell Free Library in Derby Line, Vermont, without needing passports. However, U.S. officials are now terminating this longstanding informal agreement, a move stirring up sentiment on both sides of the Canada-U.S. border. Canadian and American locals, symbolized by their mutual embrace across the new border line, express deep regret about the changes, especially as the library symbolizes their shared community. Soon, only library cardholders will be permitted to enter from Canada, marking a significant shift in cross-border relations.
The decision to end the century-old unwritten agreement allowing Canadians to enter the Haskell Free Library without passports has sparked strong emotions in the local communities.
A line doesn't separate us, it never has,' said Blais, reflecting the sentiment shared by many residents about the historical connection between both sides of the border.
In 2016, Obama underscored the library's significance, stating, 'We're two different countries, but we're like one big town,' highlighting the unity of the border communities.
A spokesperson for U.S. Customs and Border Protection confirmed that starting soon, only library card holders and employees would be allowed to cross into the library.
#border-relations #haskell-free-library #community-sentiment #canada-us-border #cultural-significance
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