Jon Michelet’s Library

Jon Michelet’s Library is an exhibition that presents Michelet’s work on the history of war sailors. The exhibition features over 600 books from his private collection. The room also has workspaces where visitors can sit down and work.

Jon Michelet’s Library is located on the first floor, adjacent to the library.

The library consists of books and archival materials from the author Jon Michelet (1944-2018). This material formed the basis for much of his authorship from 2007 to 2018, particularly in connection with the writing of the six-volume novel series about the war sailor Halvor Skramstad, En sjøens helt (A Hero of the Sea). Through Michelet’s books about the war sailors, he made it possible for descendants to understand what the war sailors endured during the war years, which for many resulted in a turbulent post-war period.

The history of the war sailors remains unknown to many today, despite them being the largest contribution from Norway to the Allied victory in World War II. Michelet’s vivid descriptions of the sailors’ struggles during the war have contributed to a growing interest and awareness of the war sailors in Norway. Through Jon Michelet’s Library, we aim to connect the fictional story of Halvor Skramstad to the actual history of the war sailors.

The library offers fact-based books (all from Michelet’s private library), an introduction to the key events related to the war sailors, and an overview of Michelet’s books about them. In this way, visitors to the library—whether they have read any of Michelet’s books about the war sailors or not—can experience the space and learn something new. A writing desk with six associated workspaces provides both students and other history enthusiasts the opportunity to sit down, find inspiration, and work in Jon Michelet’s Library.

Jon Michelet’s Library in Digital Format

You can now visit Jon Michelet’s Library from the comfort of your own home. We have digitized the library so you can explore it online whenever you wish. In the digital version, you can navigate around the room and learn more about both the history of war sailors and Jon Michelet’s authorship. We have also included exciting information in several places throughout the digital exhibition. Click on the library below and explore the history of war sailors through Jon Michelet.