Zotero (pronounced "zoh-TAIR-oh") is an web or online application that collects, manages, and cites research sources. It's easy to use, connects with your web browser to download sources, and best of all it's free!

Zotero allows you to attach PDFs, notes and images to your citations, organize them into collections for different projects, and create bibliographies.

Zotero can detect what type of resource you are viewing online, including articles, books, and webpages. You can then use it to find and save the full reference information. If the source is an online article or webpage, Zotero can optionally store a copy of the source as a screenshot. You can then add notes, tags, and related resources.

To use Zotero, you can either log into Zotero online from their website, or download Zotero 5.0, which runs as a separate application but connects to your favorite browser after you install the appropriate plugin. The plugin, called Zotero Connector, works with Firefox, Chrome, and Safari. Zotero 5.0 includes the option to install plugins for Word and OpenOffice, so you can 'cite while you write'.

Zotero.org: register for a Zotero account, access downloads, work with your online Zotero library.

Zotero documentation and support: resources to help with all aspects of Zotero usage, from installation and getting started to troubleshooting and advanced features; access to active Zotero user forums.

Vassar Zotero guide: Vassar-specific help, this guide also includes details about how to set up and use Zotero "groups" for collaboration.

ZoteroBib: Zotero's quick cite tool for when you need to quickly get a citation; generate a citation with a URL, ISBN, DOI, PMID, arXiv ID, title, or manually enter item details. 

Zotero Desktop is a good option if you:

• want to use the Zotero Connector tool. 
• plan to use Zotero extensively and want to the more robust version.
• want to insert citations and bibliographies into MS Word, Google Docs or LibreOffice documents.
• have a large library of citations and need the extended storage space your computer provides.

Zotero Online is a good option if you:

• have a smaller reference library and do not plan to utilize more advanced Zotero features.
• have a Chromebook, or other type of laptop/device that does not allow software installation.

You can install Zotero Desktop and use Zotero Online. Make sure to use the "sync" button in the upper right of the web version and Zotero Desktop and sign in so that your citations sync between them.