pyzotero

Manage Zotero libraries from Python via the Zotero API.

38|3|Updated May 7, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/Chanw-research/claude-code-paper-writing --skill pyzotero-chanw-research
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: pyzotero
Source: https://github.com/Chanw-research/claude-code-paper-writing/tree/main/skills/literature-review/pyzotero
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/Chanw-research/claude-code-paper-writing --skill pyzotero-chanw-research

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

PyZotero enables programmatic management of Zotero reference libraries from Python, addressing the challenge of manually handling references, attachments, and metadata across projects.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Read, create, update, and delete Zotero items and collections via API v3
  • Manage tags, attachments, and exports to BibTeX/CSL-JSON
  • Supports authentication setup and error handling for both user and group libraries
  • Real-world use case: integrate library maintenance into data-analysis pipelines and manuscript workflows

Quick Start

Run a Python script that retrieves and manages Zotero references using the PyZotero client.

Frequently Asked Questions about pyzotero

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I automate Zotero library management using Python?

You can automate Zotero library management from Python by using the pyzotero package to interact with the Zotero API for reading, creating, updating, and deleting items and collections programmatically.

Can I export Zotero references to BibTeX or CSL-JSON with Python?

Yes, you can export Zotero references to BibTeX or CSL-JSON formats using Python by leveraging the pyzotero client to retrieve and format items from your Zotero API library.

Do I need an API key to access my Zotero library in Python?

Yes, accessing your Zotero library in Python requires the pyzotero package, a valid Zotero API key, and your library identifiers to set up authentication for read and write operations.

Does pyzotero support managing attachments and tags in Zotero group libraries?

Yes, pyzotero supports managing tags, uploading attachments, and organizing collections for both individual and group Zotero libraries via API v3 authentication and methods.

What's the best way to integrate Zotero reference maintenance into a data analysis pipeline?

The best way to integrate Zotero reference maintenance into data-analysis pipelines is using Python scripts with the pyzotero client to automate library updates, attachment uploads, and citation exports.

Why does my Python script fail to retrieve Zotero collections and items?

Your Python script may fail to retrieve Zotero collections and items if the pyzotero authentication setup is incorrect, requiring a valid Zotero API key and accurate library identifiers for access.