Zotero is a free, easy-to-use application to help you collect, organize, cite, and share your research sources. In our experience one of its strengths is the option to create shared libraries, known as Groups, allowing you to collaborate with other Zotero users. The ease with which Groups can be set up facilitates a wide range of collaborative activities.
Zotero was originally developed as a FireFox extension but a recently introduced “standalone” version allows you to use it with other browsers. With the local component on your computer you can add citations and bibliographies to Word documents.
To use Zotero groups you must also create an online account at Zotero.org. Zotero’s online syncing allows you to access your Zotero library on any computer with internet access and Zotero installed. The two components are then kept synchronized. Zotero Groups offer users the option to create shared libraries and collaborate with other Zotero users.
To create a group login to your online account and select Groups:
Give your group a name. Note that you can choose who has access to it:
Click here for more information on using Zotero Groups.