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634 points david927 | 1 comments | | HN request time: 0.231s | source

What are you working on? Any new ideas that you're thinking about?
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_bramses ◴[] No.41347206[source]
A few months back, I posted an essay here about how I think we are entering an age where the personal library will become an asset class unto itself [1]. This is due to a combination of the advent of semantic search and the revival of personal knowledge management in the deluge of our age.

As such, I’ve been working on the software to bring this vision to life, which is called Your Commonbase (a portmanteau of Commonplace Book and Vector Database).

In short, the purpose of the work is to create a data structure that works the way humans store, retrieve, and share information. By making these three elements as close to zero stress as possible, you catalyze creativity through remixing and augmentation of memories. My hypothesis is a lifetime building a Commonbase creates an idiosyncratic system, filled with the interpretations of an individual or a group. This individualized structure then creates demand that others want. I.e, a curation of all of the books you have read, organized by the marginalia you have added to them. This is a system people would pay for, and also a system that becomes more valuable over time.

I’ve been “working in public” by posting updates on my site [2], and am just beginning a small waitlist alpha testing phase (email me if you want in!)

[1] - https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=40192359

[2] - https://www.bramadams.dev/

replies(2): >>41349430 #>>41375051 #
1. BigParm ◴[] No.41375051[source]
I've read a ton of your writing on this topic. There is still much more, but I'm tired. You described the problem well, and if your software alleviates it, then I see the value.

I'd like to try the software if it'd available please. But I'm not sure where it is or if it's out yet. Is it the Obsidian template you linked here, or is it a separate software called Your Commonbase? Because the Obsidian vault has a different name.

I have to say that the irony is hilarious that I can't find this information in the (well written) sea of information you posted. But then of course I'm not using your solution yet!