ST. JOHN’S — Libraries across Canada say a proposed change in the federal budget bill would end their ability to ship books at reduced rates, threatening interlibrary loan programs and possibly forcing the closure of rural facilities.

Bill C-15 removes a clause in Canada Post legislation providing reduced postage rates for books and other materials mailed between libraries or to library users. The bill proposes that Canada Post set its own rates, without having to seek Ottawa’s approval.

Canada Post promised Thursday to maintain the program, sometimes known as the library book rate. But Mary Chevreau, with the Canadian Urban Libraries Council, said the commitment isn’t enough.

Chevreau wants the program to remain enshrined in legislation, rather than repealed.

“If (Canada Post) sets a

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