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IncomeStreamSurfer

Roo Code Memory Bank MCP Server

by IncomeStreamSurfer
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JavaScript
Hybrid

Roo Code Memory Bank MCP Server

This project implements the core functionality of the Roo Code Memory Bank system as a Model Context Protocol (MCP) server. It allows AI assistants to maintain project context across sessions by interacting with a file-based memory bank using structured MCP tools.

Features

This MCP server provides the following tools:

  • initialize_memory_bank: Creates the memory-bank/ directory and standard .md files (productContext.md, activeContext.md, progress.md, decisionLog.md, systemPatterns.md) with initial templates.

    • Input: (Optional) { "project_brief_content": string }

    • Output: { "status": "success" | "error", "messages"?: string[], "message"?: string }

  • check_memory_bank_status: Checks if the memory-bank/ directory exists and lists the .md files within it.

    • Input: {}

    • Output: { "exists": boolean, "files": string[] }

  • read_memory_bank_file: Reads the full content of a specified memory bank file.

    • Input: { "file_name": string }

    • Output: { "content": string } or error object.

  • append_memory_bank_entry: Appends a new, timestamped entry to a specified file, optionally under a specific markdown header. Creates the file if it doesn't exist.

    • Input: { "file_name": string, "entry": string, "section_header"?: string }

    • Output: { "status": "success" | "error", "message": string }

Related MCP server: engrams

Prerequisites

  • Node.js (v18 or later recommended)

  • npm (usually included with Node.js)

  • An MCP client environment (like the one used by Cline) capable of managing and launching MCP servers.

Installation

  1. Clone the repository:

    git clone https://github.com/IncomeStreamSurfer/roo-code-memory-bank-mcp-server.git
cd roo-code-memory-bank-mcp-server

  2. Install dependencies:

    npm install

  3. Build the project:

    npm run build

    This compiles the TypeScript code into JavaScript in the dist/ directory.

Configuration (for Cline MCP Client)

To make this server available to your AI assistant (like Cline), you need to add its configuration to your MCP settings file (e.g., cline_mcp_settings.json).

Find the mcpServers object in your settings file and add the following entry:

{
  "mcpServers": {
    // ... other server configurations ...

    "roo-code-memory-bank-mcp": {
      "autoApprove": [
        "initialize_memory_bank",
        "check_memory_bank_status",
        "read_memory_bank_file",
        "append_memory_bank_entry"
      ],
      "disabled": false,
      "timeout": 60,
      "command": "node", // Or "cmd.exe" with "/c node ..." on Windows if needed
      "args": [
        // IMPORTANT: Replace this path with the actual absolute path
        // to the compiled index.js file on your system
        "/path/to/your/cloned/repo/roo-code-memory-bank-mcp-server/dist/index.js"
      ],
      "env": {},
      "transportType": "stdio"
    }

    // ... other server configurations ...
  }
}

Important: Replace /path/to/your/cloned/repo/ with the correct absolute path to where you cloned the repository on your machine. Ensure the path separator is correct for your operating system (e.g., use backslashes \ on Windows).

Running the Server

You don't typically need to run the server manually. The MCP client (like Cline) will automatically start the server using the command and args specified in the configuration file when one of its tools is called for the first time.

If you want to test it manually, you can run npm start from the project directory.

Usage

The AI assistant interacts with the server using the defined tools. The typical workflow involves:

  1. Checking the memory bank status (check_memory_bank_status).

  2. Initializing if needed (initialize_memory_bank).

  3. Reading relevant files (read_memory_bank_file) to gain context.

  4. Appending entries (append_memory_bank_entry) as decisions are made or progress occurs.

The memory-bank/ directory will be created in the same directory where the server process is started (which should be the root of this project directory when launched via the MCP client configuration).

Custom instructions

Set these instructions inside Roo

You must use MCPs where needed

I have a specific MCP flow:

Use context7 to find any relevant documentation pieces you will need for this process, ensure to feed any relevant knoweldege to any relevant subtasks - use context7 at all times to do research on important documentation if you're unsure of something Use google maps mcp in order to search for + - this will allow us to find the basic businesses we need to accomplish our task Use brave search mcp to find URLs to scrape Use fetch mcp with fetch_txt and fetch_markdown to find text and images on pages in order to convert into JSON files and create something in-depth Use openrouter search to find general sentiment of topics, reviews, etc.

Utilize the roo-code-memory-bank-mcp server to maintain project context:

  • At the start of a task or significant subtask, use check_memory_bank_status.

  • If the memory bank exists (exists: true), use read_memory_bank_file for relevant files (e.g., productContext.md, activeContext.md) to load the current project context.

  • Incorporate this loaded context into your planning and execution.

  • When making significant decisions, progress updates, or architectural changes, use append_memory_bank_entry to record the information in the appropriate file (decisionLog.md, progress.md, etc.), ensuring context persistence.

  • If the memory bank doesn't exist, consider using initialize_memory_bank if appropriate for the project.

Available Tools

4 tools
append_memory_bank_entryC

Appends a new, timestamped entry to a specified file, optionally under a specific markdown header.

ParametersJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
entryYesThe content of the entry to append.
file_nameYesThe name of the memory bank file to append to.
section_headerNo(Optional) The exact markdown header (e.g., '## Decision') to append under.

TDQS

C2.9/5.0
Behavior2/5

Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?

With no annotations provided, the description carries full burden but offers minimal behavioral insight. It states the tool appends with timestamping and optional header placement, but lacks details on permissions, file format constraints, error handling (e.g., if file doesn't exist), or mutation effects (e.g., overwriting). This is inadequate for a write operation with zero annotation coverage.

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Conciseness5/5

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

The description is a single, efficient sentence that front-loads the core action and key optional feature. Every word earns its place, with no redundancy or fluff, making it highly concise and well-structured.

Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.

Completeness2/5

Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?

Given the tool's complexity (a write operation with 3 parameters), lack of annotations, and no output schema, the description is incomplete. It doesn't cover behavioral aspects like error cases, return values, or interaction with siblings, leaving significant gaps for an agent to use it correctly in context.

Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.

Parameters3/5

Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?

Schema description coverage is 100%, so the schema fully documents all parameters. The description adds marginal value by clarifying that 'section_header' is for markdown headers and 'entry' is content, but doesn't provide syntax examples or constraints beyond the schema. Baseline 3 is appropriate as the schema does the heavy lifting.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Purpose4/5

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

The description clearly states the action ('Appends'), resource ('to a specified file'), and key details ('new, timestamped entry', 'optionally under a specific markdown header'), making the purpose unambiguous. However, it doesn't explicitly differentiate from sibling tools like 'initialize_memory_bank' (which likely creates files) or 'read_memory_bank_file' (which reads content), missing full sibling distinction.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Usage Guidelines2/5

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

The description provides no guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives. It doesn't mention prerequisites (e.g., file must exist), exclusions (e.g., not for creating new files), or comparisons to siblings like 'initialize_memory_bank' for setup or 'read_memory_bank_file' for retrieval, leaving usage context implied at best.

Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.

check_memory_bank_statusA

Checks if the memory-bank directory exists and lists the .md files within it.

ParametersJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault

No parameters

TDQS

A3.6/5.0
Behavior3/5

Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?

With no annotations provided, the description carries the full burden of behavioral disclosure. It describes the tool's actions (checking directory existence and listing .md files), which is helpful, but doesn't cover aspects like error handling (e.g., what happens if the directory doesn't exist), performance characteristics, or output format details. This leaves gaps in understanding how the tool behaves in edge cases.

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Conciseness5/5

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

The description is a single, clear sentence that efficiently conveys the tool's purpose without unnecessary words. It is front-loaded with the main action ('Checks if...') and includes all relevant details (directory existence and file listing) in a compact form, making it easy to understand at a glance.

Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.

Completeness3/5

Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?

Given the tool's simplicity (0 parameters, no output schema, no annotations), the description is somewhat complete but could be improved. It explains what the tool does, but without an output schema, it doesn't detail the return format (e.g., whether it returns a boolean, list, or structured data). For a status-checking tool, more information on output behavior would enhance completeness.

Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.

Parameters4/5

Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?

The input schema has 0 parameters with 100% coverage, so no parameter documentation is needed. The description appropriately doesn't discuss parameters, focusing instead on the tool's purpose. Since there are no parameters to explain, this meets expectations, but a perfect score is reserved for cases where the description adds value beyond an already complete schema, which isn't applicable here.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Purpose4/5

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

The description clearly states the tool's purpose with specific verbs ('checks if... exists' and 'lists... files') and identifies the resource ('memory-bank directory' and '.md files'). It distinguishes from siblings by focusing on status checking rather than appending, initializing, or reading specific files. However, it doesn't explicitly contrast with sibling tools, keeping it from a perfect score.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Usage Guidelines3/5

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

The description implies usage context by mentioning what the tool does (checking existence and listing files), which suggests it's for verifying the memory bank's state. However, it lacks explicit guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives like 'initialize_memory_bank' or 'read_memory_bank_file', and doesn't specify any prerequisites or exclusions, leaving usage decisions somewhat ambiguous.

Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.

initialize_memory_bankB

Creates the memory-bank directory and standard .md files with initial templates.

ParametersJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
project_brief_contentNo(Optional) Content from projectBrief.md to pre-fill productContext.md

TDQS

B3.2/5.0
Behavior2/5

Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?

No annotations are provided, so the description carries the full burden of behavioral disclosure. While it states the tool creates directories and files, it doesn't cover critical aspects such as whether this is idempotent (e.g., what happens if the memory bank already exists), permission requirements, error conditions, or side effects. This is a significant gap for a tool that performs file system operations.

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Conciseness5/5

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

The description is a single, efficient sentence that directly states the tool's action without unnecessary words. It's front-loaded with the core purpose and avoids redundancy, making it easy to parse quickly.

Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.

Completeness3/5

Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?

Given the tool's complexity (file system creation with templates), lack of annotations, and no output schema, the description is minimally adequate. It covers the basic purpose but misses behavioral details like idempotency or error handling. With no structured fields to rely on, the agent would need more information for robust usage.

Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.

Parameters4/5

Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?

The input schema has 100% description coverage, with one optional parameter clearly documented. The description doesn't add any parameter-specific information beyond the schema, but since schema coverage is high and there's only one parameter, the baseline is 3. The description's mention of 'initial templates' provides slight additional context about the tool's behavior, justifying a score of 4.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Purpose4/5

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

The description clearly states the tool's purpose: 'Creates the memory-bank directory and standard .md files with initial templates.' This specifies the verb ('Creates') and resources ('memory-bank directory and standard .md files'), making it easy to understand what the tool does. However, it doesn't explicitly differentiate from sibling tools like 'check_memory_bank_status' or 'read_memory_bank_file', which would require a 5.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Usage Guidelines2/5

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

The description provides no guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives. It doesn't mention prerequisites (e.g., whether the memory bank must not already exist), exclusions, or comparisons to siblings like 'append_memory_bank_entry'. This leaves the agent with minimal context for decision-making.

Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.

read_memory_bank_fileC

Reads the full content of a specified memory bank file.

ParametersJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
file_nameYesThe name of the memory bank file (e.g., 'productContext.md')

TDQS

C2.9/5.0
Behavior2/5

Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?

With no annotations provided, the description carries the full burden of behavioral disclosure. It states the action ('Reads') but lacks details on permissions, error handling (e.g., what happens if the file doesn't exist), or output format (e.g., plain text, structured data). This leaves significant gaps for a tool with no annotation coverage.

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Conciseness5/5

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

The description is a single, efficient sentence that directly states the tool's purpose without any wasted words. It is appropriately sized and front-loaded, making it easy for an agent to parse quickly.

Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.

Completeness2/5

Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?

Given the lack of annotations and output schema, the description is incomplete. It doesn't address behavioral aspects like error cases or output format, which are crucial for a read operation. The high schema coverage helps with parameters, but overall context is insufficient for reliable tool invocation.

Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.

Parameters3/5

Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?

The input schema has 100% description coverage, with the parameter 'file_name' well-documented in the schema itself. The description adds no additional parameter semantics beyond what the schema provides, so it meets the baseline score of 3 for high schema coverage.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Purpose4/5

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

The description clearly states the verb ('Reads') and resource ('full content of a specified memory bank file'), making the purpose evident. However, it doesn't explicitly differentiate from sibling tools like 'check_memory_bank_status' or 'append_memory_bank_entry', which might involve reading or checking content in different ways.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Usage Guidelines2/5

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

No guidance is provided on when to use this tool versus alternatives. For example, it doesn't clarify if this should be used for retrieving entire files versus checking status or appending entries, leaving the agent to infer usage from tool names alone.

Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.

Tool Schema Changelog

Recent tool additions, removals, and schema changes observed during successful MCP inspections. Dates show when Glama detected each change.

  1. 4 tool updatesv1.0.0
    • First observedappend_memory_bank_entry
    • First observedcheck_memory_bank_status
    • First observedinitialize_memory_bank
    • First observedread_memory_bank_file
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TDQS

A3.6/5.0
Disambiguation5/5

Each tool has a clearly distinct purpose: append adds entries, check verifies directory status, initialize sets up the structure, and read retrieves content. There is no overlap in functionality, making it easy for an agent to select the correct tool without confusion.

Naming Consistency5/5

All tool names follow a consistent verb_noun pattern (e.g., append_memory_bank_entry, check_memory_bank_status), with clear and descriptive verbs. There are no deviations in naming conventions, ensuring predictability and readability.

Tool Count5/5

With 4 tools, the server is well-scoped for managing a memory bank system. Each tool serves a distinct and necessary function (setup, verification, reading, writing), and the count is neither too sparse nor excessive for the domain.

Completeness4/5

The tools cover core CRUD-like operations for a memory bank: initialize (create), check (status), read (retrieve), and append (update/add). A minor gap is the lack of a delete or modify tool for removing or editing entries, but agents can work around this with append for updates.

Maintenance

ActivityInactive
ResponsivenessUnresponsive

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