Zotero Has New Features

The good news is that Zotero has always been an awesome, free, and open-source reference manager for research.  It is a Firefox browser add on that allows one to save metadata, files, links, and notes about information that you find anywhere on the web.  For the uninitiated, I highly recommend watching the introduction video and trying it next time you’re compiling information for a research project.

The great news is that the beta version of Zotero just got even better, because now you can sign up for an account on zotero.org and sync your Zotero library between more than one computer. I no longer have to keep my home research and my work research separate.  I can work on any project from any computer.  Needless to say, I’m very excited!

To learn more about getting started with Zotero, check out the Quick Start Guide which includes tours, demos, illustrations and instructions.

To get the new syncing functionality, visit the Zotero home page using the Firefox browser and be sure to click on the “Try out Beta 1.5″ button.  Use the export function in settings to backup your library before your first sync.  The process was seamless for me, but it is still a beta project, so you want to be safe rather than sorry. (For Internet Explorer users who have never heard of Firefox:  Firefox is an open-source, free internet browser that allows users to extend its functionality with neat addons.  You can learn more at their homepage.)

As always, USA people should feel free to contact me if you want help setting up or using Zotero or installing the new beta.

How to store information in Zotero