Call for Essential Canada-U.S. Literature in Public Libraries

There is growing concern over the lack of access to vital literature on Canada-U.S. relations in public libraries, particularly in Ottawa. This discussion has been sparked by the recognition of significant historical texts that provide insight into the complexities of bilateral ties, which are crucial to understanding Canada’s identity and future. The absence of these works in local libraries raises questions about public access to essential knowledge.

Historical Context and Literary Gaps

Among the important texts is Marci McDonald‘s 1995 book, Yankee Doodle Dandy, which explores former Prime Minister Brian Mulroney‘s efforts to establish a free-trade agreement with the United States. McDonald, who served as the Washington bureau chief for Maclean’s, provides a critical examination of Mulroney’s leadership and his relationship with U.S. President Ronald Reagan. This historically rich narrative is particularly relevant today, given the ongoing discussions about trade policies and national sovereignty.

In the book, Woodrow Wilson is quoted from 1913, asserting that imposing strict trade policies could yield the same outcomes as military intervention. More than 70 years later, a leaked briefing paper for then-U.S. Treasury Secretary James Baker praised the benefits anticipated from a free trade agreement with Canada, stating, “We got everything we wanted… henceforth the vast majority of new U.S. investments in Canada will occur with no interference by the Canadian government.” Such insights highlight the historical dynamics that continue to influence Canada-U.S. relations.

Availability and Accessibility Concerns

Despite the significance of these works, access to them is limited. The Ottawa Public Library currently lacks copies of several essential texts on Canada-U.S. relations, including Bruce Hutchison’s The Struggle For The Border and Lawrence Martin’s The Presidents And The Prime Ministers. While the library does offer some titles in e-book format, many readers prefer physical copies that are not available.

My own experience reveals a troubling gap in availability. After discovering that my copy of Yankee Doodle Dandy was missing, I sourced a replacement from a used bookseller. Upon rereading, I was struck by the relevance of McDonald’s analysis to contemporary issues surrounding trade and sovereignty. If such a pivotal book is not present in our public library, what does that say about our commitment to preserving access to essential historical literature?

Alternative resources exist, such as Library and Archives Canada, but this does not absolve public libraries of their responsibility to provide comprehensive access to significant works. In Ottawa, while some notable titles remain in circulation, many others are either unavailable or not loanable.

In discussions about national identity and sovereignty, the contributions of various authors, including George Grant and Pierre Berton, cannot be overlooked. Their works, such as Lament For A Nation and Why We Act Like Canadians, offer critical perspectives on Canada’s relationship with the U.S. and the implications of continentalism. Yet, the lack of availability in public libraries diminishes their accessibility to the general public.

As we grapple with contemporary challenges posed by shifting political landscapes, including the unpredictability surrounding figures like Donald Trump, it is essential to revisit and reflect on the historical context provided by these texts. The insights from authors like Richard Rohmer, whose novel Ultimatum imagines a U.S. invasion of Canada, remain strikingly relevant. Rohmer’s perspective, shared in a recent interview, emphasizes the enduring pressures from the United States on Canada, a theme that resonates in current discussions about sovereignty.

In conclusion, public libraries must prioritize the inclusion of significant texts on Canada-U.S. relations to foster informed citizenship. As we navigate the complexities of international relations, access to historical literature is not just a matter of academic interest but a fundamental aspect of our national discourse.