# Tolaria — Markdown Knowledge Base Desktop App

> A cross-platform desktop application for managing markdown knowledge bases with fast search, bidirectional linking, and local-first storage.

## Install

Save as a script file and run:

# Tolaria — Markdown Knowledge Base Desktop App

## Quick Use
```bash
# Download the latest release for your platform from GitHub
# macOS, Windows, and Linux builds available
# Or build from source:
git clone https://github.com/refactoringhq/tolaria.git
cd tolaria
npm install && npm run build
```

## Introduction
Tolaria is an open-source desktop application built for managing markdown knowledge bases. It provides fast full-text search, bidirectional linking between notes, and a local-first architecture that keeps all data on your machine. Designed for developers and writers who prefer plain markdown files over proprietary formats.

## What Tolaria Does
- Indexes and searches across thousands of markdown files instantly
- Creates and visualizes bidirectional links between documents
- Renders markdown with syntax highlighting and LaTeX support
- Supports multiple vaults and workspaces in a single app
- Stores everything as plain markdown files on your local filesystem

## Architecture Overview
Tolaria is built with TypeScript using Electron for cross-platform desktop support. It uses a local SQLite database to index markdown content for fast searching while keeping the source files as plain text. The rendering pipeline supports CommonMark with extensions for wiki-links, math blocks, and embedded diagrams.

## Self-Hosting & Configuration
- Download pre-built binaries from the GitHub releases page
- Point Tolaria at any folder of markdown files to create a vault
- Configure keyboard shortcuts and editor preferences in the settings panel
- Back up your data by simply copying the markdown folder
- Sync across devices using any file sync tool since files are plain text

## Key Features
- Instant full-text search powered by a local index
- Graph view showing connections between documents
- Side-by-side editing and preview modes
- Tag-based organization with hierarchical support
- Plugin system for extending editor functionality

## Comparison with Similar Tools
- **Obsidian** — Proprietary core with a plugin ecosystem; Tolaria is fully open-source
- **Logseq** — Outline-based approach with block references; Tolaria uses a traditional document model
- **Joplin** — Focuses on note sync and encryption; Tolaria prioritizes local-first plain files
- **SiYuan** — Rich block editing; Tolaria keeps files as clean markdown

## FAQ
**Q: Does Tolaria sync notes across devices?**
A: Tolaria is local-first. Use any file sync tool like Syncthing or Dropbox to sync your markdown folder.

**Q: Can I use existing markdown files?**
A: Yes. Point Tolaria at any folder and it indexes everything automatically.

**Q: What platforms are supported?**
A: macOS, Windows, and Linux via Electron-based desktop builds.

**Q: Is there a mobile version?**
A: Currently desktop-only. Mobile support is on the roadmap.

## Sources
- https://github.com/refactoringhq/tolaria
- https://tolaria.app

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Source: https://tokrepo.com/en/workflows/asset-0c117dd6
Author: Script Depot