fs-read

Read text, JSON, or PDF files within a filesystem sandbox.

10|Updated Jul 22, 2025
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/bdambrosio/Cognitive_workbench --skill fs-read
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: fs-read
Source: https://github.com/bdambrosio/Cognitive_workbench/tree/main/src/world-tools/fs/fs-read
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/bdambrosio/Cognitive_workbench --skill fs-read

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill requires pymupdf, grobid, and includes scripts (resource) and references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

This Skill allows agents to access and read content from files stored within a secure filesystem sandbox, enabling them to process information and use it for various tasks.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • File Content Retrieval: Reads text, JSON, and PDF files.
  • Flexible Parsing: Supports JSON parsing and PDF text extraction (with optional GROBID integration).
  • Use Case: An agent needs to read a configuration file (config.json) or a research paper (article.pdf) to gather necessary information for its next steps.

Quick Start

Use the fs-read skill to read the content of the file located at 'notes/meeting_summary.txt'.

Frequently Asked Questions about fs-read

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I read PDF files from a filesystem sandbox?

You can read PDF files from a filesystem sandbox using this Skill, which extracts text via pymupdf. It optionally integrates GROBID for enhanced parsing and supports character limits to manage extraction length.

Can I parse JSON configuration files within a secure sandbox environment?

Yes, you can parse JSON configuration files within the secure sandbox environment. The Skill reads JSON content directly, allowing agents to access structured data and configuration parameters for processing.

Does GROBID need to be installed for PDF text extraction to work?

GROBID does not need to be installed for PDF text extraction to work. The Skill leverages GROBID for enhanced parsing when available, but automatically falls back to pymupdf for reliable text extraction.

What is the best way to limit the amount of text extracted from a PDF?

The best way to limit extracted text from a PDF is by using the Skill's optional character limit parameter. This feature constrains the output length during text and PDF file retrieval, preventing excessive context.

Why use a filesystem sandbox for reading text files instead of direct system access?

A filesystem sandbox is used for reading text files to provide a secure, isolated environment. This approach allows agents to safely access and process file contents without exposing the broader system to unauthorized read operations.

What file formats are supported for content retrieval in this sandbox?

Supported file formats for content retrieval in the sandbox include text, JSON, and PDF. The Skill applies flexible parsing mechanisms to each, enabling agents to gather necessary information from various document types.