The Library supports two citation management tools: RefWorks and Zotero.
Consult the chart below to decide which tool is right for you or contact a librarian for more information.
RefWorks |
Zotero |
|
Is the tool web-based or does it require using your personal computer? |
Web-based; you can access your data from any computer with an internet connection |
Stores data on your computer; synching to the web is possible, but Zotero works best if you research on your own computer |
Must it be used with a specific web browser? |
Not browser-specific |
Currently operates as a Firefox plug-in, although standalone software is in beta testing |
What happens to my data when I leave Oberlin? |
Although RefWorks is provided by an Oberlin College Library subscription, you can keep using your account after you graduate |
Zotero is a free open-source tool, so no subscription is necessary |
What is the learning curve like? |
It's fairly easy to learn, but has more fine-tuned functionality than Zotero |
It's easy to learn, and is simpler than RefWorks |
How does it work with word processors, and which ones? |
Uses a plug-in for Microsoft Word (both PC and Mac) called Write-N-Cite, which formats citations and bibliographies |
Has plug-ins for OpenOffice, NeoOffice and Microsoft Word (both PC and Mac, except Word X for Mac), which formats citations and bibliographies |
What kind of items can it store? |
Any kind! You can attach PDFs and documents to citation records |
Any kind! You can attach PDFs and documents to a citation record, and automatically saves PDFs from some databases, including JSTOR |
Can I share citations with others? |
Yes, you can collaborate with other RefWorks users using RefShare |
Yes, has a feature to create private or public groups for resource sharing with other Zotero users |
Which citation styles does it use for output? |
Has a staggering number of output styles, including MLA, APA and Chicago style |
Has a staggering number of output styles that can be installed, only 15 come pre-installed, including MLA, APA and Chicago style |
Overall Strengths |
Web based, requires no software or storage of data It's a subscription-based product and has excellent documentation and support available |
Easy to import records Automatically stores PDFs from JSTOR and other databases as well as snapshots of web pages Has built-in note taking functionality |