I looked at reviews before I posted, and I can see the audience is really split between vitriol and kisses for this place. I think this is because visitors all arrive with their own expectations, and leave pleasantly surprised or deeply disappointed. So, to help you temper those expectations a little, here's what you can actually anticipate: - This is not a library, it is a bookstore, located within a free-spirited artistic and natural setting. - You can come here to look at books, look at art, sit outside under some beautiful trees and drink a coffee. - They also offer stage shows in a very intimate outdoor setting. - This is not a shrine to a dead writer, but more a space for living creativity, reflection, and expression in the space that inspired him. If you are driving along the coast, stop here, sit on a couch under a Redwood, look at the crazy art, and feel a little of what California in the 60's would have been like. read more

Went to the library on Wednesday, February 19th around 2:30 or 4:30pm. I was really excited for this place, until I entered the actual library. I had my medium sized, well-behaved dog with me (who I may add is an Emotional Support Animal). We entered, and the girl at the front desk (short black hair) who didn't say hi, nor looked up from her computer to greet me except to say, "your dog will have to stay outside," with the rudest attitude. I said back, "okay then, I guess we'll leave." I walked down the steps and I asked her "did henry miller have a dog?" She replied, "I don't think so" in the snoodiest manner. I won't be going back, until I get an apology and the staff is cleaned up. Also, here is a link to a website that says the library is dog-friendly. Obviously I know its from 2012, but hey, its still up. http://dogparade.wordpress.com/tag/henry-miller-library/ Come on guys, what would henry miller do? read more

I have tried on 2 other occasions to get in to the HMML and it was closed so this time I was really excited when I saw the open sign! I was rather underwhelmed by the experience only because my expectations were a little high. For some reason I was thinking more of a museum rather than a Henry Miller inspired book store. I spent about 30 minutes browsing through the books and thanks to Theo the store cat my fiance was thoroughly amused the whole time. They also have a ping-pong table with a came going the whole time which kinda explains "Ping-Pong" the literary journal of the HMML. The Miller books hanging from the ceiling was a great touch as were the shelves marked as authors that directly inspired Miller's works! The shopping was okay, but I was disappointed when they didn't have a copy of "Crazy Cock" and only a small selection of Anais Nin's works but I still picked up two Miller books to add to my collection and also two books by Celine that I have never seen in a book store before!!! They did have a great selection of authors including works form John Fante, Haruki Murakami, and many more. I was suprised there was no Bukowski in the stacks. I will def be back on one of our future trips regardless only because I am a bibliophile! read more

I heart One Direction. I have only been here three [3] times. There was no mobile reception; so no check-ins tethered to this review to support patronage. Take my word for it, I've been here. You ever been somewhere and you wish in retrospect you never had? You wish that they would stop spamming you with electronic mail? You wish that the establishment itself just went under and never opened its wooden gates to the public again? Well, you would know how I feel if that were the case. Henry Miller Memorial Library: - You disgrace Henry Miller's very name with your continued existence. You are a squatter on the good name and sentiment conjured by the words of the gentleman. - You exploit the exclusivity of your business name and a confused public who cannot easily decipher if you are a library or not. (You are about as much as a library as the Las Vegas gentleman's club "The Library" is.) - You don't know how to run shows, and should not be entrusted to do so by booking agents and artists passing through California. What I am saying (writing) is that the Henry Miller Memorial Library is terrible. Tuuurrrrrible. Pro Tip: There is a Macintosh out back where one may log on to the world wide webs. read more

This place is interesting. Gotta love the unique way to display the namesake's books by hanging them from the ceiling. Wish I would've spent more time hanging out in the yard area, which was gorgeous! Too bad we couldn't stay for the open mic night there, as I am sure it would've been a blast! As for the library/bookstore itself, there's a small collection of new books as well as used books. Some very interesting titles as well as more modern and even some ancient classics. The staff people spent most of the time I was there outside smoking, together. Not the best location if folks have questions! I thought the stamp they put into your purchased books was quite nifty. I am glad I went but I'd have to say there's not a whole lot going on inside, seems like most of the action is nighttime and outside! read more

Henry Miller lived in Big Sur between 1944 and 1962. Unlike many written things that any Yelper might write in Yelp Talk, Henry Miller's material was considered banned in American Markets. As an artist and conceptional literary visionary his greatest intent was to bring real life into his books. He spoke of emotions and one's true introspective. The Henry Miller Memorial idolizes that very same personification of freedom of speech and opened doors to artists, painters and even theater to aspect a special category of life, whether true to spirit, sexual and or intellectual. It was that banishment that had been lifted that gives the museum a certain holiness. Beautiful redwoods spot the one acre land with a scrumptious feelings of solitude and creative concentration. Anyone and everyone is welcomed to simply enjoy the space, browse, meditate, and find peaceful strength. Books, Art, Sketches, CDs, Vinyl Records, paperbacks, hard cover, vintage goods, outdoor theater, movies, photography. read more

Truly enjoyed my afternoon and Film Festival evening. The majestic setting under the Redwood trees is very pleasant. Employees were very kind to let me recharge my batteries for my electric Hebb bike. Will be back read more

The cottage has books and records, etc. Concerts are held outdoors on the very small stage--it's a 300-ticket venue. The Flaming Lips played here on 9.11.12, and considering that they are becoming better known for the spectacle of their shows than their music, it seemed a minor miracle that they were able to downsize enough to fit. They hoisted their huge mirror ball between two redwood trees! There was no seating, which is the way it should be at a FLips show. Wayne surfed the crowd in the space bubble, lights blazed, balloons bounced, confetti flew. I had two glasses of decent white wine in a plastic cup (the guy thanked me for bringing mine back for the refill) and quite a bit of secondhand weed smoke. After the sun went down, the air was moist and cool. The stars came out. My new friend got friendlier. The place seemed magical. If your favorite band is slated to play the HMML, my advice is to go, by any means possible. I don't know how you could get any closer to the musicians without physically being on stage with them. read more

Henry Miller Memorial Library - Gate just opened for The Flaming Lips, 9.11.12 - Bookstores Near Me - Big Sur, California

Groovy. Colorful. And a big fluffy cat! meow. It was a bit hard to find at first, we had to backtrack on the road. There was a stage set-up, but nothing was going on when we visited so I perused the books for a glorious hour while my boy got bored (sorry!). Note: Don't come here if you don't like books (or when there is no music playing). Because you will not know what to do with yourself. Unless you like cats, then you can pet the o' fluffy one as it purrs by the books. Joy. read more

Nearly a whole pocketful o' Mezzotints for only $50?! Nice "library"! Steinbeck for sale? Guaranteed Ol' Heinrich's doing perpetual 360s over that one, baby. read more

Saw Bat for Lashes here in April. What a night! If a band you like is playing here you need to go! It's a concert experience like no other! Pure ocean/redwood/starry sky magic! Tips: you're going to have to park alongside Hwy 1 and cross the road (not as scary as it sounds) . You may want to bring a flashlight with you cause it gets pretty dark out there and you don't want to end the night by tripping on a large rock. Bring a blanket to sit on if you want to sit down .....but I recommend you stand up and dance instead, live a little! read more

I love how everything in Big Sur doesn't really have an address besides "Highway 1." But I guess in a vast stretch of nothing, you're going to notice all of these places, like the Henry Miller Library. I visited this place because this was where Bonnie "Prince" Billy (AKA Will Oldham) was playing his second show in Big Sur. So as a music venue (I don't know how often this happens) it was quite lovely. Compared to the Fernwood, there was plenty of places to enjoy the music, whether it be on a rug on the ground or folding chairs in the back. It's just nice to enjoy music under the stars... But be forewarned, it gets COLD at night so wear plenty of layers! As a library (bookstore) the place is quite small but it's stocked with all of Henry Miller's work (naturally) as well as other must reads for Henry Miller and literary fans. It's kind of a Big Sur reading list. While you're in there, be on the look out for the famous photo of Henry Miller next to his girlfriend's bare ass as well as the naked women postcard. I don't get it, but you can enjoy it. BTW, for people looking for wifi in Big Sur (you came to GET AWAY from technology!) this place has an internet connection you can use to email and Yelp. read more

Henry Miller Library is a little haven of peace in Big Sur: make sure to stop by when you're in the area. It's located in a beautiful garden off of Highway 1, where I'm sure you'll enjoy taking a break from the driving. There's artwork in the yard, and the library itself has a good and interesting selection of books by or regarding Henry Miller, as well as other books by local authors or on the area. They also hold concerts and readings outside in the yard. read more

Henry Miller Memorial Library - Bookstores Near Me - Big Sur, California

Brilliant jewel of a place on an amazing drive. I was even more fortunate to enjoy a live performance from singer songwriter "Beatie Wolfe" in this magical venue. Cinco Estrellas read more

what a great little spot! I just wanted to chuck all convention back home, pack up the cat and my own books and move in to this library. All I need to do is learn the guitar and give up pizza and I could fit in right nice. read more

stumbled upon this by accident while cruising up PCH. WHAT A FIND!! absolutely gorgeous setting, plenty of outside seating for longing and reading. beautiful views in every direction. art installments, books, tshirts, etc. super friendly and helpful staff. took a spot on a long bench outside and read in the shade of the redwoods. i could've stayed for hours. definitely worth a stop! read more

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STOP! STOP THE CAR! How many times do you have to drive by without a look-see? No Henry Miller never lived her, he never wrote here either but they do have a lot of memorabilia a la Miller and the funky cottage does have its charms-like the magical cottage set in the woods but you do not have to trek through the woods to get there- just a few steps from your parked car. Yes, the literary selection here is commendable- I took home a compilation of eccentric short stories by various authors so the love affair could continue. Insider- And did you know that famous people have had small intimate concerts here? Try Patty Smith and Phillip Glass on the sound menu. You too can say, "I remember when...." read more

Great venue for a concert! Very intimate. Audience members even yelled questions up at the performers between songs, and they answered. Seeing anyone perform here would be an extremely special experience. read more

Henry Miller Memorial Library - An hour before the Sarah Jarosz concert started! What a wonderful venue. Bring a blanket. - Bookstores Near Me - Big Sur, California

This is the best bookstore I've ever been to. The books selection they have is so impressive. I've never found so many gems. I found books that I've always wanted to read but never found in local bookstores. But this place is so much more than a bookstore. Ping pong. Music. Events. Coffee. To put it bluntly, you HAVE to come here. Guaranteed to be a good time. read more

The staff isn't really friendly till they have your money in their hand. People are like living in tents on the side... Everyone thinks they are super cool. It's ok and different but I don't know... They took it too far with the clothesline hanging of laundry on the side of the building. I love weird hip little spots but not when they're so annoyingly thinking they are too cool. Sorry. 3 stars is all I can do ... and that's a star too many I think but I'm in a good mood. read more

This place is misnamed. Years ago, it was fit to be named after Henry Miller. But now, I am afraid he is probably rolling around in his grave. I have only been twice: once in 1999 then again in 2012. It felt like two different places. The first time it was filled with Henry Miller literature and the works of those who had inspired him (i.e. Anais Nin), as well as books and zines from local writers and artists. Flash forward 13 years and it's become like mall bookstore with fan fiction (50 shades, Twilight, etc), wannabe record collectors and a washed-out owner/manager who probably hasn't been sober since the 70s. The place is all about sales and whatever it takes to make them. It was kind of sad and at the same time comical. I don't recommend it. read more

Great place. Beautiful, informal setting in the redwoods. I've been there twice now--once for a wedding, and once for an author's book reading. read more

I had no desire to come here.. was I wrong.. there is a magic in this a magic in this quaint rustic library. . Just wonderful. We returned three times during our three day stay in Big Sur.. one of our favorite places on our 2014 road trip. . Super nice guy at the desk to. Remembered us Everytime.... Donate!! read more

Henry Miller is really the only place offering fun nighttime events in Big Sur throughout the week. I love going to the Short International Film Festival! Outdoor seating, amongst the redwoods, next to the ocean = priceless! Love the popcorn! read more

The Library really captures the culture of Big Sur in a positive and personal way. There are two parts to the library: the events and the library itself. The library itself is inviting, and you can perch up in the area for as long as you would like to relax for. And if there is an event, then even better, because this is where this venue comes alive. It is hard to really describe the essence of this magical place; it is definitely something that you have to experience on your own to form any true opinion. read more

We stopped here on our way through Big Sur and I was pretty excited about it. The library is actually a book store with a good selection of books about Henry Miller and the culture of Big Sur which I thought was neat. The books hanging from the ceiling were also a nice touch as was the ping pong table. Since its not really a library, it gets three stars. read more

Stopped here without knowing much beforehand, only that the rock-stacking guy up the road said we should! Personally, I really enjoyed it. I thought it was kind of magical and special. I did not know much about Henry Miller prior, so I don't know what that says about this review, but I thought it was a neat collection of beat-related books as well as some about the area. If you are a Henry Miller fan I think you will especially like some of the letters and small relics all around. I liked the cozy setup, the mountainous feel, and the really cool fluffy cat (there was also a dog). They had a decent selection of coffee and tea in front for a donation. I bought a book and I hope to return in the future. read more

I just really truly appreciate the fact that a place like this exists, and I hope it does so evermore.

I finally made it to Big Sur and HM's place last October, thanks to a job that let's me travel (and pays for it)! I cannot really add much more than all the glowing testimonies as to how great it is. I loved HM's books for years so this was a sort of literary pilgrimage for me, driving there from Monterey with my Tennessee friend in her little Mercedes convertible. It was a magical day and the library was the highlight. Of course I spent hours there and bought too many books, including a nice big photo one of Miller in Paris (I only live 2 hours from Paris!). I really didn't want to leave the place. I get this way at literary places but the emotions at being here were something I savor. If you haven't been, GO! read more

This place is cute and cozy folks! Expect rustic cuz' thats how things are in Big Sur. Its a bookstore that obviously features books by Henry Miller as well as other authors who were inspired by Henry. They have a very large lawn and garden area with a stage where they feature many musicians, open-mic night, and the Big Sur Fashion show - just to name a few events, obviously these are evening events which in my opinion is when the Henry Miller Library comes alive. Bring a blanket and lay on the lawn underneath the redwood trees. Dress warm in the evening because it tends to get a little cool at night. Relax and soak in the Big Sur atmosphere and i'm sure you'll have a lovely time! read more

There is something to be said about a bookstore / library / venue tucked into the trees amidst the winding roads of Highway 1. Truly a hidden gem and a piece of history tucked away and preserved for generations. Lovely staff, friendly cat, art, books, music, peace, serenity, nature. There is no way to hate this place. read more

I just wrote a book entltled Accident, A Legal Misadventure, in which my friend, Henry Miller, the author, is one of the main characters. He speaks in the book in his real voice and authentic style. It is worth reading by any true Henry Miller fan. It is available on Amazon. Phillip Rohlin phillipmrohin@yahoo.com read more

went here for vinyl in the woods record sale. things i loved about this place: peaceful, beautiful surroundings, perfect weather, a rainfall of lady bugs (seriously, they were flying around everywhere) an organic cuban catering truck for the record event, open dj options. things i did not like: hippies, only henry miller-related books in the library (but i guess that makes sense...it IS the henry miller memorial library), hippies, hippie girls hula-hooping to music, hippies. read more

this place is fantastic. i've been waiting and waiting to check this place out and to have someone willing to do the two hour drive to this little library and finally i got a chance to go! and let me tell you, this place is so beautiful and right in the middle of the forest in big sur. there are amazing views on the drive to this place and the library is very quaint and cozy. when we went to visit there was a poet presenting his work outside and people drinking tea and little kids running around under twinkle lights and it was so wonderful. i definitely recommend checking out this place if you're a henry miller lover or counter cultural lover trying to find a taste of the sixties. read more

Henry Miller Lilbrary is more than a library, it is a the heart of the Big Sur community. They offer some great events including the Big Sur Fashion Show. Get on their email list to see what's on. read more

The first thing that grabbed my attention was the smell. Upon entering the library/bookstore, I couldn't help inhaling deeply: the soothing scent is a mixture of the ancient redwoods and the ink on the book pages. The staff was friendly too. read more

Best library in California. Where thoughts convert into printed words that mate with pulp. Vegan, gluten free, and dolphin safe.

Was seriously disillusioned by this place. We stopped by when backpacking through big sur to find the zeitgeist of Miller and Kerouac and all that jazz, and oh man it's a damn shame. The employees were rude, conceited in their pitiful music tastes, and literally rejoiced in our faces that we had no place to sleep when we asked for recommendations. Like, in a mean way. Honestly, I'm an inked spiked dreaded punk, but that literally made me cry. It just crushed me that the descendents of the beats would be money grubbin burning-man-wannabes. They wouldn't even let us nap on the fucking deck. read more

This is the cutest little place. I didn't even know it existed until we saw it on our way home and decided to stop. It's so quiet and serene. It looked like they did events and held shows. It would be an amazing place to see a band play! read more

why don't you sell one ticket, i can't afford to buy a pair! it makes no sense, and there's no logic given reason being offered - very annoyed. read more