Summary
This server is deprecated and you should use Readwise's new hosted MCP server instead. The legacy version wrapped Readwise's API to let you search highlights, retrieve documents, and sync reading data directly in Claude conversations. While it connected to your Readwise account via access token and exposed tools for querying your highlights and Reader content, the new hosted version at readwise.io/mcp offers the same functionality without local installation. The hosted version works across Claude Desktop, ChatGPT, and other MCP-compatible apps, making migration straightforward through updated config entries.
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Readwise MCP (Deprecated)
This MCP server is deprecated. Please use the new Readwise MCP server instead: readwise.io/mcp
The new server is hosted — no local installation needed. It supports both Readwise and Reader data, and works with Claude Desktop, ChatGPT, Claude Code, Cursor, and any MCP-compatible app.
Migration
Replace your existing claude_desktop_config.json entry with the new server. Setup instructions for all clients are at readwise.io/mcp.
If you also want CLI access and agent skills, see readwise.io/cli.
Legacy Installation (not recommended)
Click to expand old installation instructions
Installation in Claude
- Please make sure you have Node installed.
- Open Claude desktop app.
- Navigate to Settings > Developer.
- Click
Edit Config. - Add the following entry to the
claude_desktop_config.jsonfile, replacingACCESS_TOKENvalue with your Readwise Access Token.
{
"mcpServers": {
"Readwise MCP": {
"command": "npx",
"args": [
"-y",
"@readwise/readwise-mcp"
],
"env": {
"ACCESS_TOKEN": "XXXXXXXXX"
}
}
}
}
Troubleshooting
For general troubleshooting guidance, please refer to the official Model Context Protocol Claude Desktop Troubleshooting section.
"Could not attach to MCP server Readwise MCP"
A very likely reason for this to happen is that you have an incorrect npx/Node version set up. If you're using nvm, try running nvm use 18 in your terminal. If not, consider reinstalling Node.
Errors when calling Readwise tools
When using this MCP server, you may occasionally encounter MCP errors during your conversations with Claude. If you experience such errors, we recommend trying to switch between different Claude models (e.g., from Claude 3.5 Haiku to Claude 3.7 Sonnet) as this often resolves the issue.
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Download Free life-time →Integrate web data into your AI product. One API to scrape website & brand data.
Get API Key Now →belt cli automatically finds the best tools and skills for your agent. image, video, music, tts...
one prompt install →Connect your Claude agent to live crypto prices and trading routes via 1inch
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