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trove_search

Query the National Library of Australia's Trove to find historical newspapers, books, maps, and other resources.

Instructions

Search the National Library of Australia's Trove.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
queryYes
zoneNoe.g. newspaper, book
nNoNumber of results
api_keyNo
Behavior1/5

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

No annotations are provided, and the description offers no behavioral information such as read-only nature, authentication requirements, rate limits, or what data is returned. The agent has no insight into what happens when the tool is invoked.

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Conciseness2/5

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

At one short sentence, the description is brief but ineffective. It fails to convey essential information efficiently, prioritizing brevity over utility.

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

Completeness1/5

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

Given the tool has 4 parameters, no output schema, and no annotations, the description is severely incomplete. It omits critical details like return format, pagination, authentication, and constraints, making it inadequate for reliable tool invocation.

Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.

Parameters2/5

Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?

Schema description coverage is 50%, but the tool description adds no meaning beyond the schema. It does not explain the 'query' parameter or clarify valid values for 'zone' (e.g., 'newspaper', 'book'), leaving parameter semantics underdocumented.

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

Purpose3/5

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

The description states the tool searches Trove, identifying the resource and action. However, it is vague and does not differentiate from sibling tools like trove_get_work or trove_newspaper_article, which also operate on Trove data.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Usage Guidelines2/5

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

No guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives. The description lacks context on prerequisites (e.g., API key) or expected results, leaving the agent without direction.

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

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