diff --git a/README.md b/README.md
index 9a5a05e7..795eb7e3 100644
--- a/README.md
+++ b/README.md
@@ -36,12 +36,10 @@ this monorepo includes source code for api, frontend, and related packages:
 - [packages tree](/packages/)
 
 it also includes documentation in the [docs tree](/docs/):
-- [cobalt api documentation](/docs/api.md)
 - [how to run a cobalt instance](/docs/run-an-instance.md)
-- [how to protect a cobalt instance](/docs/protect-an-instance.md) (recommended if you host a public instance)
-
-### thank you
-cobalt is sponsored by [royalehosting.net](https://royalehosting.net/?partner=cobalt). a part of our infrastructure is hosted on their network. we really appreciate their kindness and support!
+- [how to protect a cobalt instance](/docs/protect-an-instance.md)
+- [cobalt api instance environment variables](/docs/api-env-variables.md)
+- [cobalt api documentation](/docs/api.md)
 
 ### ethics
 cobalt is a tool that makes downloading public content easier. it takes **zero liability**.
@@ -55,6 +53,9 @@ same content can be downloaded via dev tools of any modern web browser.
 ### contributing
 if you're considering contributing to cobalt, first of all, thank you! check the [contribution guidelines here](/CONTRIBUTING.md) before getting started, they'll help you do your best right away.
 
+### thank you
+cobalt is sponsored by [royalehosting.net](https://royalehosting.net/?partner=cobalt). a part of our infrastructure is hosted on their network. we really appreciate their kindness and support!
+
 ### licenses
 for relevant licensing information, see the [api](api/README.md) and [web](web/README.md) READMEs.
 unless specified otherwise, the remainder of this repository is licensed under [AGPL-3.0](LICENSE).