What is HearthShelf?
HearthShelf is a replacement UI for AudiobookShelf (ABS) — a self-hosted audiobook server you already run on your network.
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Domain | hearthshelf.com |
| Type | Static SPA served via nginx in a Docker container |
| Backend | Your AudiobookShelf server |
| Target | Browser (desktop-first, responsive) |
| Language | TypeScript |
What it is
HearthShelf is only the look. Your AudiobookShelf server stays exactly where it is and keeps doing everything it already does — holding your files, preparing audio, and remembering where you left off. HearthShelf swaps the built-in AudiobookShelf web page for a nicer, easier-to-use one.
Everything you see — your books, covers, and progress — comes from your AudiobookShelf server. HearthShelf itself has:
- No file management
- No audio processing
- No copy of your library, progress, or listening history — those always live in AudiobookShelf
HearthShelf does keep a small backend of its own (QuestGiver) with an embedded SQLite database for HearthShelf-specific state only - app settings, AI recommendation config and history, and request/feedback data. It never duplicates your ABS library.
What it is not
HearthShelf does not replace AudiobookShelf. You still need AudiobookShelf running to use it. Think of HearthShelf like a new skin or theme for your audiobook server.
The relationship
Design direction
- Dark by default — warm near-neutral dark surfaces on a
#1b1a18base - Ember accent — a single warm accent color (
#e0654a) used sparingly - Desktop-first — designed for the browser, responsive enough for tablets
- Libre Baskerville brand wordmark — editorial serif for a warm, bookish feel
AudiobookShelf
HearthShelf is built on AudiobookShelf v2.x. Point the slim image at a server you already run, or use the all-in-one image, which bundles AudiobookShelf so you don't have to run it separately. Learn about ABS.