Setup guide · ChatGPT
Connect Zotero to ChatGPT
Let ChatGPT search, read and cite your Zotero library. No API key and nothing to install — just sign in with Zotero.
Setup in 4 steps
- 1
Enable developer mode
In ChatGPT open Settings → Apps & Connectors → Advanced and turn on developer mode. - 2
Add the connector
Choose Create and enter the server URLhttps://refbridgemcp.com/mcp. - 3
Authorize Zotero
Sign in with Zotero and approve access. You never copy or paste a key. - 4
Use it in a chat
Start a new chat, enable RefBridgeMCP from the tools menu, and ask about your library.
Things to ask ChatGPT
- “Find papers in my Zotero library about citizen science and summarize the main findings.”
- “Add this DOI to my library and attach the open-access PDF.”
- “Which of my references cite each other on groundwater recharge?”
Questions
- Do I need a Zotero API key?
- No. You sign in with Zotero and approve access — RefBridgeMCP handles the rest.
- Which ChatGPT plans support it?
- Custom connectors require a ChatGPT plan with developer mode / connectors enabled (Plus, Pro, Business, Enterprise or Edu, depending on OpenAI's current rollout).
- Can ChatGPT change my library?
- Only when you ask. Every AI edit is logged with a snapshot so you can review and undo it.
- Is it free?
- Yes, there's a free plan. Paid plans add higher limits and semantic search.
Using another assistant? See the Claude guide or the full docs.