In the Spring of 2012, the Henry Miller Library launched its 2012 fundraising drive to help pay for State and Federally mandated health and safety requirements.

During Phase 1 (which is still ongoing), donors receive incredible rewards like free tickets, t-shirts, books, and more for making their tax-deductible donation to the Library, which is a 501 (c) (3) arts organization.  (You can donate here.)

Phase 2 was the June 25th Philip Glass, Joanna Newsom, and Tim Fain benefit at the Warfield in San Francisco.  The event, which generated national attention, was a smashing success.

Sept. 28th at the Henry Miller Library - Rufus Wainwright

And now comes Phase 3: Jesse Goodman presents a rare and intimate evening with Rufus Wainwright on Sept 28th at the Henry Miller Memorial Library in Big Sur.  Tickets here.

The Library is extremely fortunate and honored to have Rufus perform: he follows a long line of previous artists who have performed benefits for the Library, including Philip Glass, Patti Smith, Marianne Faithful, Henry Rollins, Yo La Tengo and Laurie Anderson.

And as with these previous benefit performances, all proceeds will go to the Henry Miller Memorial Library.

At the time of this writing, the Library has raised over $50,000; thanks to the generosity of both promoter Jesse Goodman and Rufus Wainwright, the Library’s fundraising goal of $140,000 will soon be within reach.

Update on Renovations to the Library’s Water and Septic System (Aug. 8, 2012)

Since the launch of the drive, the Library has made great progress in its efforts to meet state and county regulations. There are two main challenges: a new septic system with additional bathrooms to accommodate public gatherings; and implementing a water delivery system.

Regarding the former, the Library has installed a new septic system in March 2012, including a 100-foot long leach field, and the engineering and architectural plans for the new bathrooms are completed.

Regarding the latter, the Library is currently in negotiations with regulatory agencies concerning an efficient and cost-effective public water delivery system. The final application to the County is still pending.

The Library anticipates receipt of the building permit in the later summer/early fall. Construction will begin in the fall once the permit is received and the necessary funds are secured.

Please help spread the word and join us on September 28th, and as always, thank you for your continued support!