zotpilot

Build a vector index over a local Zotero library for semantic search and MCP tools.

69|14|Updated Mar 16, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/xunhe730/ZotPilot --skill zotpilot
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: zotpilot
Source: https://github.com/xunhe730/ZotPilot/tree/main
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/xunhe730/ZotPilot --skill zotpilot

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes scripts (resource) and references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

ZotPilot helps researchers locate, organize, and reason about literature by enabling semantic search, citation graphs, and AI-assisted workflow over a local Zotero library.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Semantic search across Zotero items with meaning-based ranking and OpenAlex integration for citations.
  • Section-aware retrieval to fetch targeted passages from Abstract/Methods/Results, and batch operations to tag or organize items.
  • Write operations via Zotero Web API for tagging and collection management, synced back to Zotero.
  • Use Case: perform a literature review by quickly finding relevant passages, organizing them into topic collections, and extracting citations.

Quick Start

Install ZotPilot, register your Zotero library, and start indexing to enable semantic search.

Frequently Asked Questions about zotpilot

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I do semantic search over my Zotero library?

Semantic search over a Zotero library works by building a vector index of local items to enable meaning-based ranking. It supports section-aware retrieval to fetch targeted passages from Abstract, Methods, or Results sections.

What is section-aware retrieval for literature reviews?

Section-aware retrieval extracts targeted passages from specific paper sections like Abstract, Methods, or Results. It aids literature reviews by locating relevant text segments within a Zotero library rather than returning entire documents.

Can I manage Zotero tags and collections using MCP tools?

Yes, batch write operations via MCP tools can tag and organize items into collections. These changes sync back to the Zotero Web API, keeping your local library managed through the integrated interface.

Which embedding providers work with Zotero semantic search?

Configurable embedding providers include Gemini, DashScope, or local embeddings. A no-RAG mode is also available to handle queries when embeddings are disabled or not configured.

Does Zotero citation graph search support OpenAlex integration?

Yes, citation graph queries support OpenAlex integration for citations. This allows you to traverse citation relationships and extract citation data directly over your local library.

What are the limitations of no-RAG mode for local Zotero data?

No-RAG mode activates when embeddings are disabled, bypassing the vector index. It lacks meaning-based ranking and section-aware retrieval, functioning without the semantic search capabilities of the indexed mode.