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EndNote, RefWorks, Mendeley, and Zotero

This guide offers basic help for using various citation management systems in addition to answering frequently asked questions and providing NYU-specific information.

About Zotero

Zotero logo

Zotero is a freely available extension for the Firefox web-browser (or can be downloaded for the Chrome or Safari connector) that runs in its own pane, separately from web pages. It automatically detects content in your web browser, allowing you to add to your personal library with a single click.

Set-up Zotero

Zotero Standalone is an application that you can download from zotero.org. It plugs into your browser of choice, and comes with connectors for three browsers: Firefox, Chrome, and Safari.

You must have Zotero Standalone open to use the Firefox, Chrome, and Safari capture icons. (If you don't, you will just be redirected to Zotero's website.)

You do not have to install the word processor plugins with Zotero Standalone. The plugins are bundled with the software download.

  • To install the Zotero Standalone software, visit the Zotero download page. Click on the link for your operating system and follow standard procedures for installing software on your computer. Zotero Standalone comes with word processor plugins, so you will not need to install these. Links to install the browser connectors are found just beside the Standalone download links. 
  • Chrome Connector: A box will appear in the lower right hand corner of the browser asking if you want to continue. Click Continue. Then click Install when Chrome asks if you want to install.
  • You will now see Zotero capture icons in the address bar. Screenshot of Zotero capture icon on the right side of a browser's address bar.
     
  • Safari Connector: Depending on your settings Safari may not automatically open the file. Use Control+ Click and select "Download linked file to..." to save the file to your desktop or some other easy to remember location. Double click the file to open. Click Open, then click Install. The Safari capture icon will show up as a little box to the left of the address bar.