What it does
PDFs are hard for AI to read because headings, columns and tables get jumbled. OpenDataLoader PDF converts them into clean, structured text and records where each piece sits on the page. An optional mode adds text recognition for scanned pages.
It can also add hidden "tags" to PDFs so screen readers can read them aloud properly, which helps with accessibility rules. Some compliance export features are a paid add-on.
Who it's for
Developers feeding documents into AI systems, and organisations making PDFs accessible.
Can I use it without coding?
Developers only. Used through Python, Node.js or Java code; needs Java installed. New to this? Start here.
Can I run it?
- Cost
- Free, with optional paid extrasThe open-source version is free; the makers also sell a hosted or pro version.
- Computer
- An ordinary computer is fine
- API key
- Not needed
Try it
Using Claude Code, Cursor or another AI coding assistant? Paste the prompt and it will walk you through the setup.New to this?
Before you install
- Only download from the official GitHub page. Copies with similar names exist for many popular projects.
- License (Apache-2.0): Permissive: free to use, change and share, including for business.
- More on staying safe
Where people are talking about it
- OpenDataLoader-PDF: An open source tool for structured PDF parsingHacker News · Sept 2025