How to: API Read Request the right way

immo.wille · March 9, 2015

Hi there

I am trying to get a request (just via the browser as I need an URL for the dedicated tool) to the Zotero API running.
For example an easy request like my Groups works:
https://api.zotero.org/users/2185872/groups/

But when I try to get further e.g. with a private key or so it seems like its not allowed as of "Forbidden":
https://api.zotero.org/users/2185872/collections/E5S4ER3F/items?format=bib

What am I doing/getting wrong by the documentation?

I just want to get a response for e.g. like this:
https://api.zotero.org/users/475425/collections/9KH9TNSJ/items?format=bib

Help is really appreciated.

Thanks in advance
Immo

adamsmith · March 9, 2015

Those URL don't include a key. While you shouldn't post your key here, it should be in any API call to a private library. You can get a sample api call using the atom feed button at the left of the online view of your library or any collection/tag view of your library.

immo.wille · March 10, 2015

Thanks!

Means I messed with "non-public libraries".

https://api.zotero.org/users/2185872/items/top?format=bib&key=xx..xx

Which Format also delivers the attached URI or the comment to an item?
Or do I have to define it myself?

adamsmith · March 10, 2015

you mean a bibliography format? attached URLs and Notes aren't included in bibliographies--they aren't in Desktop Zotero, either. You'd have to grab them from the item information returned from the API and then handle the additional formatting on your side.

immo.wille · March 10, 2015

so, I got it right in the end.
Thanks and enjoy.