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Eastern Michigan University Halle Library

Zotero Citation Manager

This guide is designed to help the EMU community use Zotero to manage citations, organize research, and create bibliographies.
Whether you're just getting started or exploring advanced features, you'll find tools and support throughout this guide.

Installing Zotero

To use Zotero, you’ll need to install:

  • The Zotero desktop application
  • A Zotero browser connector that lets you save citations directly from the web

You can find both on the Zotero Download page (opens in a new window). For detailed instructions, see Zotero’s Installation Guide (opens in a new window).

We also recommend that you create a free Zotero account (opens in a new window) to sync your library online and across devices. Your account includes 300 MB of free cloud storage.

Step 1: Download Zotero and Connector

Go to the Zotero Download page (opens in a new window) and download:

  • Zotero 7 desktop app (for Windows, macOS, or Linux)
  • The Zotero Connector for your browser

Zotero will automatically detect your operating system and browser, but you can select a different version if needed.

Zotero download page showing the Download button (opens in a new window)

Step 2: Install the Desktop Application

For macOS:

  • Open your Downloads folder.
  • Double-click the Zotero disk image or installer file (it may look like an open box).
  • Follow the on-screen instructions to install.

For Windows:

  • Locate the downloaded installer file (usually in your Downloads folder).
  • Double-click it and follow the prompts to install Zotero.

Note: Zotero’s desktop app does not work on Chromebooks.

Step 3: Install the Connectors

The Zotero Connector lets your browser save citations directly to your Zotero library.

  • Zotero will usually detect your browser and suggest the correct connector.
  • Each browser—Chrome, Edge, Firefox, and Safari—requires its own connector.
  • If you use multiple browsers, install a connector for each one.

After installation:

  • Open your browser’s Extensions or Add-ons menu.
  • Make sure the Zotero Connector is enabled.
  • You should now see a Zotero icon in your browser toolbar, like one of these: 📄 🔗 (or a stylized “Z,” depending on the browser).

Need Help?

Visit official browser help pages for managing extensions:

We also have a Zotero Connector handout that you may find helpful: