Get collections in the library. By default returns a flat, paginated list of top-level collections. Use recursive=true to retrieve the complete nested collection tree (all levels) in one call. Use parentCollection to scope to a specific parent\
AI agents call get_collections to retrieve information from Zotero Agent without modifying anything — typically the context-gathering step in research, monitoring, and reporting workflows, before the agent takes action elsewhere.
This tool performs a query operation to list and retrieve collection metadata from the Zotero library. It has no side effects—it does not create, modify, delete, or execute operations. It simply returns collection information based on optional parameters (recursive flag, parent collection filter).
From the tool's definition Tool description states it 'returns a flat, paginated list of top-level collections' and retrieves 'the complete nested collection tree'. The verbs 'Get' and 'retrieve' indicate read-only querying with no modification or deletion of data.
Attacks that exploit this kind of access
Get collections in the library. By default returns a flat, paginated list of top-level collections. Use recursive=true to retrieve the complete nested collection tree (all levels) in one call. Use parentCollection to scope to a specific parent\. It is categorised as a Read tool in the Zotero Agent MCP Server, which means it retrieves data without modifying state.
Register the Zotero Agent MCP server in PolicyLayer and add a rule for get_collections: allow, deny, rate-limit, or require approval. Point your MCP client at the PolicyLayer proxy URL and the rule is enforced on every call, before it reaches Zotero Agent. Nothing to install.
get_collections is a Read tool with low risk. Read-only tools are generally safe to allow by default.
Yes. Add a rate_limit block to the get_collections rule in your PolicyLayer policy. For example, setting max: 10 and window: 60 limits the tool to 10 calls per minute. Rate limits are tracked per agent session and reset automatically.
Set action: deny in the PolicyLayer policy for get_collections. The AI agent will receive a policy violation error and cannot call the tool. You can also include a reason field to explain why the tool is blocked.
get_collections is provided by the Zotero Agent MCP server (psiQAQ/zotero-agent). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.
get_collections is one line of Zotero Agent's registry record.
The record carries the whole server: verified identity, auth posture, risk grade, every tool classified, recommended policy — re-checked continuously.
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