Bondi Secure DJVU to PDF Converter

This program offers a groundbreaking solution to decode and convert Bondi Secure DJVU files to PDF format. Initially developed by Bondi Digital Publishing for the Rolling Stone: Cover to Cover software, the Bondi DJVU format was a unique archive format that became obsolete after the company ceased operations. This tool breathes new life into the cherished content, making it accessible on modern operating systems by converting it to the widely supported PDF format.

Warning

Running from source requires 32-bit Python 3.10. It will not work with 64-bit Python versions because it must access 32-bit DLL files. The binary release should work on all Windows systems. Additionally, the script requires certain DLL files to operate correctly (they must be located in the same directory as the script). These are included with the binary release download but you can also obtain them yourself as noted below. Be aware that if you simply clone the repo and immediately try to run the script with python it will not work. Feel free to open an issue if you have problems.

It is recommended that you copy the DJVU files from the Rolling Stone DVD's to your local file-system first, and then convert the local copies. Converting the files directly from the DVD can result in errors.

Please note that this program will not work for the Bondi Playboy or New Yorker collections. To convert the Playboy: Cover to Cover collection, use the companion tool found here. I have also figured out how to convert the Bondi New Yorker collection and I will have a working tool up soon in its own repository.

Required DLL Files

• msvcr71.dll
• msvcp71.dll
• System.Drawing.dll
• BondiReader.DJVU.dll (This is a crucial file found in the "Rolling Stone: Cover to Cover" installation directory, typically located at C:\Program Files (x86)\Rolling Stone\BondiReader.DJVU.dll. The DLL file must be copied to the same directory as the Python script.)

Getting Started

Using the Compiled Binary (Recommended)

The easiest way to use this software is to download the compiled binary (.exe) file from the GitHub Releases page. This binary is compatible with all Windows systems and has been compiled with Nuitka using the --standalone and --onefile flags for ease of use. However, the aforementioned DLL files must still be located in the same directory as the executable for the program to function. Download from the versions page on the right-hand menu and extract the contents of the zip file. To use the compiled binary, follow the syntax below:

cd <path to bondi_to_pdf.exe parent directory>
.\bondi_to_pdf.exe <path to DJVU file or directory> --output_dir <output directory>

Running From Source

To run the script from source, ensure you have 32-bit Python 3.10 installed. The same DLL files mentioned above must be in the same directory as the script. Here's a brief overview of how to set it up:

1. Ensure you have 32-bit Python 3.10 installed.
2. Place the required DLL files in the same directory as the script.
3. Run the script via the command line or another Python environment that supports Python 3.10-32.

Usage

The program can process single DJVU files or entire directories containing DJVU files. There are two required dependencies. Both are stable packages with no history of shenanigans. To install the dependencies, use the following code in Windows:

python -m pip install Pillow fpdf

To use the program, follow the syntax below:

python bondi_to_pdf.py <path to DJVU file or directory> --output_dir <output directory>

Disclaimer

Use of this software for unlawful purposes is strictly prohibited under the license terms.

License

This software is licensed under the terms of the Eclipse Public License 2.0. It is provided 'as-is', without any express or implied warranty. In no event will the authors be held liable for any damages arising from the use of this software. Use of this software for illegal purposes is strictly prohibited. By using this software you agree to all terms.

Acknowledgements

This project was inspired by the "Rolling Stone: Cover to Cover" software, a cherished piece of history for its users. A special thanks to the community that has kept the interest in this software alive.

Donations

This is a short script that took years to create. Lots of people tried to do this and gave up out of frustration, but I just never gave up. It was a labor of love and I've made it freely available to all. But if you want to show your support, donations are always appreciated.

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