Zotero MCP Server
by kujenga
This project is a Python server that implements the Model Context Protocol (MCP) for Zotero, providing access to your Zotero library within AI assistants. It enables interactions with Zotero for use with MCP clients.
Last updated: N/A
What is Zotero MCP Server?
The Zotero MCP server is a Python-based implementation of the Model Context Protocol (MCP) designed to interface with Zotero. It allows AI assistants and other MCP clients to access and interact with a user's Zotero library.
How to use Zotero MCP Server?
The server can be installed and run either against the local Zotero API (if Zotero desktop application is running) or through the Zotero Web API (using an API key and library ID). Configuration options include specifying the API to use, API key, and library ID. It can be integrated with MCP clients like Claude Desktop using configuration files to specify the command and environment variables.
Key features of Zotero MCP Server
Search for items in your Zotero library using a text query (
zotero_search_items)Get detailed metadata information about a specific Zotero item (
zotero_item_metadata)Get the full text of a specific Zotero item (i.e., PDF contents) (
zotero_item_fulltext)Supports both local Zotero API and Zotero Web API
Docker support for easy deployment
Use cases of Zotero MCP Server
Integrating Zotero library access into AI assistants for research and knowledge retrieval.
Building custom applications that leverage Zotero data through the MCP.
Automating research workflows by combining Zotero data with AI-powered tools.
Enabling AI models to understand and utilize the context of research papers and notes stored in Zotero.
FAQ from Zotero MCP Server
What is the Model Context Protocol (MCP)?
What is the Model Context Protocol (MCP)?
MCP is a protocol that allows AI models to access external tools and information sources.
Can I use this server without the Zotero desktop application running?
Can I use this server without the Zotero desktop application running?
Yes, you can use the Zotero Web API, but you'll need an API key and your Library ID.
How do I get my Zotero API key?
How do I get my Zotero API key?
You can create an API key in your Zotero account settings at https://www.zotero.org/settings/keys.
How do I find my Zotero Library ID?
How do I find my Zotero Library ID?
Your Library ID is usually your User ID for user libraries and can be found in your Zotero account settings.
Why do I need a Zotero Beta Build for the /fulltext endpoint?
Why do I need a Zotero Beta Build for the /fulltext endpoint?
Access to the /fulltext endpoint on the local API requires a Zotero Beta Build to retrieve the full content of items in your library. Once 7.1 is released this will no longer be the case.