Setting Up Reference Libraries

Retrobox is a powerful catalog explorer, but it comes as a neutral utility—empty of any commercial software files. To unlock its full potential, you can configure “Reference Libraries” to search external archives.

What is a Reference Library?

A Reference Library is an external source of data that Retrobox can index. By adding a library source, you enable the app to search for software titles, box art, and metadata hosted by third-party archives.

How to Add a Library

1. Open Retrobox.
2. Go to Settings > Libraries.
3. Tap Add Source.
4. Enter the URL of a compatible library index.

Compatible Sources

Retrobox supports indexing standard JSON-based catalogs and specific public archives.

1. The Internet Archive (Archive.org)

The Internet Archive is a non-profit library of millions of free books, movies, software, music, websites, and more.

• Public Domain: You can search typically “Public Domain” collections.
• Software Library: You can configure the app to search the softwarelibrary_msdos_games or console_livingroom collections.

Note: To add Archive.org, you typically use https://archive.org as the source root. Retrobox will attempt to use public search APIs to index relevant metadata.

2. Apple II Mirrors

mirrors.apple2.org.za is a well-known community archive preserving the history of the Apple II platform.

• Asimov Archive: A massive collection of public domain and educational software.
• Source URL: Generally configured as https://mirrors.apple2.org.za/ftp.asimov.net/.

3. Community Indexes

Various preservation communities maintain JSON indexes of software metadata. If you have a URL to such an index, you can enter it directly.

Disclaimer

Retrobox is not affiliated with The Internet Archive or any third-party host. We do not host, distribute, or control the content found via these search services. The user is responsible for ensuring they have the right to access and use any content retrieved.

Reference: Apple Store Compliance Strategy - Bring Your Own Content