The Henry Miller Memorial Library champions the writer, artist and Big Sur resident Henry Miller. Nestled among the redwoods, the Library functions as a social, cultural and artistic hub where artists, writers, musicians and students gather. We support education in the arts and the environment and advocate for preserving Big Sur’s natural and cultural heritage for current and future generations.
“Big Sur is a place of splendor, a savage beauty beyond words,” Henry Miller wrote about his years living on the Central Coast. The Library honors his legacy and free spirited ethos with a vast archive of his writings: illustrated letters, manuscripts, and notebooks that trace Miller’s literary and artistic journey between his life in the U.S. and his years in Paris.
In Spring 2027, Paris will host the historic transfer of the Library’s Emil Schnellock Collection of Miller’s manuscripts, artwork, and correspondence to the Bibliothèque Nationale de France (BnF). This symbolic “return” offers Paris a living record of artistic friendship, creative struggle and literary invention—transforming private correspondence into shared cultural heritage.
Scholars and enthusiasts will join for a dynamic program of music, poetry, film, theater, and exhibitions. Our iconic Henry Miller Memorial Library serves as primary organizer of these events—acknowledged internationally as the loyal guardian of Miller’s legacy.
The Library’s books and art, the gorgeous setting, and the warm reception by staff combined to make it even more special than I anticipated. What a great way to learn about life in Big Sur, meet locals and other visitors, so many from abroad, and create another memorable opportunity in my travels.
- J. Bloomfield, London, UK
