Zotero is a free reference management tool for academic work. It helps you collect, organise, cite and share sources. You get 300 MB of free cloud storage for syncing file attachments, while references and notes can be synced without a storage limit.
Zotero 10 has been available since August 2026. To update an existing installation, go to Help → Check for Updates. The Zotero Connector lets you save sources from databases, library catalogues and websites directly to your library.
What is new in Zotero 10 – Three key imporvements:
Following the improvements and new features in version 8 released in January 2026 (see post), the new version 10 brings the next major update:
1. Better searching:
Combine search conditions directly in the main window and search across multiple collections or libraries. Full-text searches are faster and handle variations in accents and typography more reliably.
2. Batch editing and undo:
Update fields such as publisher information across several items at once. Item types, creators and tags are not yet supported. You can undo many changes with Ctrl+Z / Cmd+Z.
3. Easier reading and improved Read Aloud:
The new PDF Reading Mode offers adjustable fonts and line spacing, with highlights and notes linked to the standard PDF view. Read Aloud skips distracting elements more reliably and reads more smoothly across columns and page breaks.
Other improvements include a citation preview, an updated Safari Connector and reduced memory usage. See the Zotero blog and changelog for details.
System requirements and introductory sessions
Zotero runs on Windows 10 or later, macOS 10.15 or later, and compatible Linux systems. Also check the requirements for browser extensions. We regularly offer introductory Zotero sessions as part of our Wissen+ programme.
Tip: Zotero on the go
With the apps for Android, iPhone and iPad, you can collect sources, search your library, and read or annotate documents wherever you are.
Unlimited storage for PH Lucerne and University of Lucerne members
Use your institutional email address (@phlu.ch, @stud.phlu.ch, @unilu.ch or @stud.unilu.ch) to get unlimited Zotero storage. PH Lucerne recommends Zotero to its students for reference management.
Helpful Tutorials
The following videos introduce basic workflows. They show older versions of Zotero, so the interface and some features differ from Zotero 10.
- ZHB Lucerne: Getting started with Zotero – 5 minutes, 2022. A short introduction to help you get started (in German).
- FU Berlin – 9 minutes, 2020. A German-language introduction with examples from Primo, whose interface is similar to swisscovery.
- TU Dresden, Institute of German Studies – 14 minutes, 2020. An introduction with tips for academic work and an overview of Zotero Groups (in German).
- Zotero crash course – 15 minutes, 2021. A German-language tutorial divided into handy chapters.
- St. Pölten University of Applied Sciences – just under 5 minutes, 2020. A brief overview of basic features (in German).
- Top Tip Bio – 13 minutes, 2021. An English-language introduction.
Working together with Zotero Groups
This TU Dresden video explains group libraries (in German). When setting up a group, consider who should be able to see it and access its contents.
Citation tip
Cite them right online helps you work out how to cite different types of sources. Remember to check your programme’s requirements and the accuracy of imported references.
Further information
- Zotero Quickguide: an English-language overview of working with Zotero.
- Academic integrity: Citing sources and avoiding plagiarism (in German).