Skip to main content
Glama
Mearman

MCP Wayback Machine Server

by Mearman

list_screenshots

Retrieve screenshots captured for a URL from the Wayback Machine archives. Use this tool to find historical visual snapshots of web pages.

Instructions

List available screenshots for a URL from the Wayback Machine. Screenshots are generated when captures are made with capture_screenshot=1.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
urlYesThe URL to find screenshots for
limitNoMaximum number of screenshot results
Behavior3/5

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

No annotations provided, so description bears full burden. It explains when screenshots are generated but omits details like rate limits, authentication, or behavior when no screenshots exist.

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?

Two sentences, no wasted words, front-loaded with the core purpose. Information is directly actionable.

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

Completeness4/5

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

For a simple list tool with two parameters and no output schema, the description adequately covers purpose and key condition. Minor omission: no mention of output format or empty results handling.

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 covers both parameters with descriptions (100% coverage). The description adds no extra semantic value beyond the schema, achieving baseline 3.

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

Purpose5/5

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

Description clearly states the tool lists available screenshots for a URL from the Wayback Machine, with a specific condition (capture_screenshot=1). This distinguishes it from sibling tools like check_archive_status or save_url.

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?

No explicit guidance on when to use or not use this tool versus siblings. The mention of capture_screenshot=1 implies context but lacks direct compared alternatives.

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

Install Server

Other Tools

Latest Blog Posts

MCP directory API

We provide all the information about MCP servers via our MCP API.

curl -X GET 'https://glama.ai/api/mcp/v1/servers/Mearman/mcp-wayback-machine'

If you have feedback or need assistance with the MCP directory API, please join our Discord server