---
title: Open Memories
description: An open specification for LLM memories. One readable format, across tools, local files, and the cloud.
section: Overview
order: 0
eyebrow: An open specification for LLM memories
headline: Memory should move with you.
intro: Your tools change. Your context should come with you. Open Memories proposes one format for the knowledge an agent keeps, wherever it is stored.
---

## Useful context. Without the walls.

An agent learns how a project works, which decisions matter, and what a person prefers. Today, that knowledge goes into tool-specific files and stores. A change of tool can mean a fresh start.

Open Memories proposes a shared document format and a way to find those documents. A memory can stay in a local folder or come from an approved remote source. The tool that uses it does not need to own it.

## A small, common foundation.

1. **Readable records.** Markdown holds the memory. A small metadata header describes its identity, scope, and source.
2. **Explicit sources.** A manifest lists the records in a local folder or an HTTPS location.
3. **User control.** Each source needs approval. Imported content is context, with its origin retained.

## Start with the format.

The first draft defines records, discovery, and read behavior. It leaves retrieval methods, model choice, and storage engines to each tool.

[Read the specification →](/specification)