Henry Miller Memorial Library — Attraction in Gonzales

We park on the 1 and walk in through an open gate in the 8ft fence. Last night’s festivities are being loaded up on the open lawn. In front of us is a low slung cabin, wide and relaxed, inviting. Books hang from the eves, a whimsical remnant of the pandemic when no one went inside. They hang from trees too, wrapped in plastic and available for purchase. The library itself is a bookstore with quotes and old movie posters and photos and letters framed. Miscellanies in the best sense. I wander the small room in three circles, pausing with a different book each time. Tempted to purchase. Instead, I chat with the owner and the show presenter putting on a sold out concert tonight. They agree to sell me a door ticket four hours before doors and I leave delighted, excited to be back in a few hours for live music. I return in the late afternoon to the open lawn transfigured by rugs and camp mats and camp chairs, tables adorned with flower. The stage is flower lined and a whole band is set up. Alone, I mingle and meet people, easily and quickly feeling a part of this gathered community of big surites and Bay Area fans. A space of beauty.

I Loved reading the Henry Miller letters, articles and quotes pasted around. I stood outside the bathroom at the back reading Pico Iyer’s 1991 profile of the man who the space memorializes. For book lovers and curios. For wanderers needing a tree rimmed break from the highway and the gathered hordes in the state park parking lots.

I’m wondering what Big Sur was like before we all started “doing it for the gram” and stopped coming to it the peace and silence and solitude of the cliffs and the ocean. At The Henry Miller Library I...

"Closed for Private Event Open tomorrow 11am-5pm." From Thursday afternoon to Sunday at 11am I found this sign posted outside of the Henry Miller Memorial Library. After driving over 200 miles to take-in the inspiration of this place, and view some of the writer's watercolors, I was devastated.

Imagine the incongruity of selling access to a place founded in such stark contrast to the discriminatory financial hustles of this world, and who’s namesake made cruel sport of unscrupulous patrons of the artworld. On the non-profit’s booking website one of the descriptions actually reads, "An incredible redwood grove to act as your playground."

(A bit on HM and how if he was alive would have really puffed his cheeks at this.) Throughout the writer's travels, conversations, feasts, dreams, escapades, etc. the reader is treated to some of the most insightful and gut-wrenching prose ever produced. Hypocrisies are circumscribed during midnight walks along the financial district. Clarity is achieved at the cafes and dance halls and on threadbare canvases which affirm again and again the absolute necessity of great art. And access to it. On the library’s website it reads, “The Henry Miller Library guarantees all guests the broadest possible latitude to speak, write, listen, challenge, and learn.” I’ll let you fill-in the snarky bit to add after the word learn.

When a place such as this, established in tribute to a truly sublime spirit, is only available for a $2000.00 fee, well it does seem reasonable to question their 501 (c)...

From the moment we set foot in the Henry Miller Library, we knew we had found something truly special. Nestled in the heart of a picturesque forest, this enchanting venue felt like stepping into a dream—a whimsical escape that perfectly captured the magic of our love story.

As avid book lovers, the library’s literary charm instantly resonated with us. Surrounded by shelves filled with captivating novels and the beautiful artwork that adorns its walls, we felt as though we were marrying in the pages of our favorite storybook. Every corner held a unique surprise, creating a wonderfully intimate atmosphere that our guests adored.

Our wedding day was nothing short of magical. The soft rustle of leaves and the gentle sound of the nearby creek provided the perfect soundtrack to our vows. Our friends and family were absolutely charmed by the venue’s beauty, often commenting on how it felt like a fairy tale brought to life.

The staff was incredibly accommodating and attentive, ensuring that every detail was just right. Their passion for the space truly enhanced our experience, making our day feel all the more special.

If you’re looking for a venue that combines whimsical charm with a deep appreciation for literature, the Henry Miller Library is an absolute gem. We fell in love with each other all over again in this serene haven, and we couldn’t have imagined a more perfect setting for our celebration. This magical place will forever hold a cherished spot...