Help and FAQ
Start with the things you already have.
Set up Local Library, add recordings and documents, and understand exactly when data stays on your Mac or goes to a provider you chose.
Getting started
- Download Local Library on an Apple silicon Mac.
- Open the app and tell it what to call you in summaries.
- Choose the note and document folders you want to include.
- Choose a folder for imported recordings and where summary notes should be written.
- Pick a summary provider, or choose “Decide later”.
- Start the 30-day trial and verify your email address.
Frequently asked questions
What happens on first run?
The app checks your Mac, creates the library, downloads about 800 MB of on-device speech, speaker and search models, indexes the folders you selected, and starts its local engine. You can connect an AI assistant and start or enter a licence before finishing.
What runs locally?
Your library database, indexing, search, audio transcription and speaker processing run on your Mac. Summary generation runs locally if you choose Ollama or LM Studio. If you choose Anthropic, OpenAI or OpenRouter, the transcript being summarised is sent to that provider using your own key; the app labels this choice.
How do I capture a call or meeting?
Use the Record screen with a microphone that can hear the conversation, or import an audio file or meeting export into your recordings folder. Local Library does not yet connect directly to calling services.
How do I leave a voice note?
Open Record, choose a microphone, and press Record. When you stop, the audio is added to your library and queued for transcription. You can also choose “Transcribe only” when you do not want a summary.
Which documents can I import?
Local Library reads Markdown, plain text, PDF, Word (.docx) and PowerPoint (.pptx) documents. It keeps the originals where they are. Images can be catalogued, but Local Library does not yet read the content of an image.
How does the free trial work?
The 30-day trial starts in the app during first run. It needs a verified email address and does not need a payment card. A trial is limited to one per email address and Mac identity.
What does a licence include?
A purchase gives you a perpetual licence plus one year of maintenance and updates. After that, yearly maintenance is optional. You can choose automatic renewal at checkout or manage it later from your account.
How do I send a support report?
In the app, go to Settings, then About and Support, and choose “Send a report”. The app shows every line before sending so you can edit or remove it. The report contains operational details, not notes, transcripts, summaries or library titles.
Can my AI assistant use the library?
Yes. First run and Settings can connect supported assistants to the local engine. They can search the library and help process its inbox, subject to the access you give them.
Still stuck?
Email support@locallibrary.ai, or use “Send a report” in the app so support receives the relevant version and error details.
Build a library that stays yours.
Start with a 30-day free trial in the app. No card is needed to begin.