zotero-mcp-server

Get Items In Zotero Collection

zotero_get_collection_items

Read-onlyIdempotent

List all items filed under a specific Zotero collection with optional pagination and output in markdown or JSON format.

Instructions

List the items filed under a specific Zotero collection.

Args:

collection_key (string, required)
limit (number, default 50, max 100)
start (number, default 0): pagination offset
response_format ('markdown' | 'json', default 'markdown')

Returns the items in the collection (not sub-collections). For a broader text search restricted to a collection, use zotero_search_items with collection_key instead.

Tool call template

Replace each placeholder with a value matching the input schema. Only required parameters are included; add optional parameters as needed.

{
  "id": 1,
  "jsonrpc": "2.0",
  "method": "tools/call",
  "params": {
    "arguments": {
      "collection_key": "<collection_key>"
    },
    "name": "zotero_get_collection_items"
  }
}

Input Schema

Name	Required	Description	Default
`limit`	No
`start`	No
`collection_key`	Yes	The collection's Zotero key
`response_format`	No	Output format: 'markdown' for human-readable or 'json' for machine-readable	markdown

Schema Changelog

Changes observed during successful MCP inspections.

First observedv1.0.0Jul 29, 2026

TDQS

A4.4/5.0

Behavior3/5

Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?

Annotations already declare readOnlyHint=true, destructiveHint=false, idempotentHint=true, and openWorldHint=true. The description adds minor context: returns items in the collection (not sub-collections). No contradictions.

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Conciseness5/5

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

Structured with Args list, concise (4 lines plus one sentence), no fluff. Every sentence adds value.

Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.

Completeness4/5

Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?

Covers all parameters, pagination, response format, and provides alternative usage. No output schema exists, but the description explains what is returned (items in collection, not sub-collections). Could optionally mention response structure, but adequate given annotations.

Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.

Parameters4/5

Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?

Schema description coverage is 50% (only collection_key and response_format have descriptions in schema). The description adds default and max for limit, default for start, and enum values for response_format, compensating for missing schema descriptions.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Purpose5/5

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

Clear verb 'List' with specific resource 'items under a Zotero collection'. Distinguishes from siblings by noting it returns items in a collection (not sub-collections) and provides an alternative for broader search.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Usage Guidelines5/5

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

Explicitly states when to use (list items in a collection) and when not (not sub-collections). Provides an alternative tool (zotero_search_items with collection_key) for broader text search restricted to a collection.

Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.

Deploy Server