Library

Himalayan Library

A welcoming space for learning, reflection, and community connection — housing one of the few complete Derge Parkhang collections in New York City.

About the Library

A Hub for Cultural Exploration

The Himalayan Library offers a welcoming and supportive space for learning, reflection, and community connection. With a diverse collection in Tibetan, English, and Chinese, it serves as a vibrant hub for cultural exploration, bringing together individuals from all backgrounds to engage with the richness of Himalayan heritage.

Our library houses one of the few complete collections of high-quality texts from the Derge Parkhang (Derge Printing House), established in 1729 in Sichuan's Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. Home to approximately 300,000 traditional woodblocks, this historic institution continues to produce classical Tibetan texts.

Our contribution of high-quality ink and specialized cleaning supplies has supported the restoration of woodblocks, helping ensure the continued production of clear, high-quality texts. We are actively working toward digitizing this collection to make it publicly accessible.

For inquiries about the Himalayan Library, contact us at info@hcsc.org

Collection Languages

Tibetan English Chinese

Collection Topics

→ Buddhist philosophy & meditation
→ Himalayan art & history
→ Biography & cultural studies
→ Himalayan travel, adventure & photography
→ Complete Buddhist canons
→ Derge Parkhang classical texts

Our Librarians

Jampa-la, Dzogchen Tenan-la, and Chunta-la support visitors, maintain the collection, and ensure a welcoming experience for all.

Library Programs

Programs & Events

Library Collections

A wide range of resources supporting learners, researchers, and community members. Works on Buddhist philosophy, meditation, art, history, biography, and Himalayan travel and photography.

Lectures & Talks

Panel discussions, lectures, book launches, and open conversations featuring local and international scholars, artists, and practitioners. Topics include Tibetan culture, language, identity, arts, and philosophy.

Community Reading Circle

Participants read aloud together in a collaborative and supportive environment, strengthening language skills and comprehension while fostering confidence, connection, and shared cultural identity.

Digital Preservation Initiative

We support the preservation of Tibetan literary heritage through initiatives connected to the Derge Parkhang, established in 1729. We are working toward digitizing our complete collection to make it publicly accessible, expanding availability while preserving this important cultural legacy.