As the library blog migrates to a new format I am reposting the "greatest hits" from the old blog. These entries have been updated with new web links where appropriate and reformatted for the new blog. Think of these entries as catching up with old friends or learning about a resource that you missed the first time.

The entry below was originally published by Roberta Woods in three parts on February 19, 2009, March 10, 2009 and April 9, 2009.

Zotero - What is it? (Part I) 

 Zotero is a plugin for your Firefox browser to capture, import and archive information from the web.  You can create a bibliography from the library catalog simply by clicking on the "book" icon in the browser's URL box.  Zotero recognizes the various fields in the catalog record and pulls that information from the record.  But Zotero can do so much more.  It can also capture web pages and pdfs.  You can highlight and annotate pages, add notes and much more.  Your bibliography will include the last time you accessed the web page and the URL.  Best of all, Zotero is FREE. 

Using a Firefox browser simply go to the Zotero site and download it.  The GUI was built on the iTunes model so those familiar with the iTunes interface will intuitively know how it works.  There are hundreds of styles built in, including Bluebook - Law Review style.  Once you've installed Zotero, you'll see the word "zotero" at the bottom right-hand side of your browser window.  Click on it and the Zotero interface will rise up from the bottom of the browser window. 

Now do a search in MelCat.  Click open one of the results.  On the right-hand side of the address bar you'll see a book icon.  Click on it and that book will be added to your library.  It's that simple. 

Sometimes you will see a folder icon where the book icon is.  Click on it and choose some or all of the links listed to add to your library.

No icon?  No problem.  Click on the paper icon and add the site to your library.

More later...meanwhile, enjoy.

Zotero - Access Zotero Library from any Computer (Part II)

Zotero - Success Story (Part III)