Citation managers capture metadata (title, author, etc.) directly from records and sources. You can use them to collect and organize citations from library and web resources. They integrate with word processing software, so you can easily insert already formatted in-text citations and bibliographies into papers.
Beyond these general functions, citation managers offer different options for storing and annotating full text, sharing research with colleagues, and finding new research.
To choose the citation manager that is best for you, consider your priorities and research patterns. For example, is working in groups a priority? Highlighting and annotating PDFs? Using a particular word processor or database?
This guide compares the features offered by Zotero and Mendeley, two frequently used, mostly free citation managers, and provides instructions for downloading and beginning to use them. The information in this guide comes from the Zotero and Mendeley websites.
Citation managers can help you:
Citation Managers – Zotero & Mendeley 
-Thursdays, October 10, November 14, and November 21, 2024
-11 am in 110 Moon
-Presenters: Jennifer Nace, Hanna Seraji, and Ruth Owens
Moon Library's citation workshops help students learn the ins and outs of writing citations. These are drop-in, hands-on workshops, so bring your laptops and current projects. Library staff will demo citation managers Zotero and Mendeley and talk students through basic citation management. Bring your laptop or device to get started!