New to Java

I am wondering if Java will help me with something here. I have an archive of HTML pages (very large) that is to be used on local computers, WITHOUT a webserver. I have written a very comprehensive and customized search script (shell script) that searches indexes of the archive. I would like to interface the search engine with the web browser, so that all user activity takes place there, without having to open up any additional programs. The search is submitted from the browser window, then the search results are displayed in the window as well.

I have actually accomplished this using javascript, but I have run into some limitations with this.

I have gathered that it might be possible to use java to accomplish this, maybe either by using it to interface my script with the brower, or write the whole search engine in Java and do it that way.

Any input would be appreciated, so I may know whether to invest in learning Java right now. I am not opposed to learning Java, but my first priority is to get the search feature working, in whatever manner it will take to do that.

If it is possible, please point me to the particular tools of Java that would accomplish this. I learn best by doing something real. Please keep in mind that I am NOT using a webserver.

Much thanks,

Allasso