Henry Miller’s best friend Emil White lived in the house that is now the Library beginning in mid-1960s.  White officially named it the Henry Miller Memorial Library when Henry died in 1980. When Emil passed away in 1989, he dedicated the property to become a non-profit organization.

Our Mission Statement is thus: “The Henry Miller Library is a public benefit, non-profit 501 (c) 3 organization championing the literary, artistic and cultural contributions of the late writer, artist, and Big Sur resident Henry Miller.  The Library also serves as a cultural resource center, functioning as a public gallery/performance/workshop space for artists, writers, musicians and students. In addition, the Library supports education in the arts and the local environment. Finally, the Library serves as a social center for the community.”

The Library hosts events throughout the year, but particularly in the summer months (May-October), including music, lectures, book signings, and countless community events including the Esalen Gazebo School benefit, our Big Sur International Short Film Screening Series, Big Sur Stories, and of course, so much more!

But Didn’t Miller Disapprove of Memorials?

Correct.  Memorials, he said, “defeated the purpose of a man’s life. Only by living your own life to the full can you honor the memory of someone.” So, is this place a memorial trying not to be a memorial? Maybe. The best way to find out is to come here, browse, look at what’s on the walls, listen to the music, have a cup of coffee or tea, sit down by the fire, read for a while, do nothing…”

Check out our schedule to see what’s coming up and sign up for our newsletter. We look forward to seeing you soon!