Citation management tools are programs that collect records or citations from research databases (indexes, catalogs, etc.) that you can then organize for your research projects. They also help you cite your research by creating bibliographies, citations, and footnotes automatically.
Why should I use a citation management tool?
What are the types of citation management tools?
While not supported directly by the LIbrary, many scientists find Mendeley Reference Manager a useful alternative to Zotero or EndNote.
| I Need to: | Use: | Why: |
|---|---|---|
| Work from multiple computers or locations |
Zotero |
Zotero saves your citation library to your local computer, but syncs with multiple computers so you can work from home, work, or school. EndNote Web is web based. Your citation library is accessible from any computer that is connected to the web. |
| Work without an Internet connection | Zotero Mendeley EndNote |
Zotero, Mendeley and EndNote can store your citation libraries locally on your computer. |
| Archive web pages and import citations from sites such as Amazon, Flickr, and ArtSTOR | Zotero | Zotero allows you to easily save snapshots of web pages and annotate them within your citation library. It is a great tool for saving citation information from some web-based publications and commercial and social networking sites. |
| Work on a group project or share my citations with others |
Zotero |
Zotero allows you to share your citations through shared folders -- you can give individuals or groups permissions to add and edit the citations in the shared folder. Mendeley allows you to share citations and documents with a group of up to 10 other users, or create a public reading list that is open to all. EndNote Web allows you to share groups with anyone who is registered with the service. You can allow others to view or edit your citations. |
Adapted with permission from “Choosing a Citation Manager,” copyright © 2011 The Pennsylvania State University.