MCP OpenMemory Server

What is MCP OpenMemory Server?

MCP OpenMemory Server is an MCP (Model Context Protocol) server that gives Claude the ability to remember conversations and learn from them over time. It uses SQLite for persistent local storage without external dependencies.

How to use MCP OpenMemory Server?

Configure the server in Claude Desktop’s claude_desktop_config.json using npx with the package @peakmojo/mcp-openmemory@latest, setting the environment variable MEMORY_DB_PATH to a persistent absolute path. The server starts automatically when Claude Desktop is launched and creates the database on first use. Four tools become available: save_memory, recall_memory_abstract, update_memory_abstract, and get_recent_memories.

Key features of MCP OpenMemory Server

• Store and recall individual conversation messages.
• Maintain summarized memory context across conversations.
• Access recent conversations within configurable time windows.
• Uses SQLite for persistent storage without external dependencies.
• Supports memory namespacing by project via separate databases or a “context” field.

Use cases of MCP OpenMemory Server

• Preserve user preferences and working style across multiple Claude sessions.
• Maintain ongoing project status and context without re-explaining each time.
• Keep a searchable log of key decisions and their rationale for recurring tasks.
• Separate memory per project (e.g., one database for Claude, another for Cursor).

FAQ from MCP OpenMemory Server

What happens if I don’t set MEMORY_DB_PATH?

The database defaults to ./memory.sqlite in a temporary location that may be cleared when Claude Desktop restarts, causing loss of conversation history.

What runtime does MCP OpenMemory Server require?

It requires Node.js to run the MCP server. Verify installation with node --version.

Where does the conversation data live?

All data is stored locally in a SQLite database file at the path specified by MEMORY_DB_PATH. No external cloud storage is used.

Does the server support semantic search over memories?

No, semantic search is not yet supported. Memory retrieval is currently based on stored summaries and recent history.

How are MCP OpenMemory Server’s tools accessed?

Claude Desktop exposes four tools after configuration: save_memory, recall_memory_abstract, update_memory_abstract, and get_recent_memories. They appear in the tools list when clicking the slider icon (🔧) in the input box.