New document + We have a Zotero library!

Hi, folks! Two things. First, there’s a new “article” to read on the Files and Handouts page, under the byline Claudia Dreifus. As you’ll see, it contains a number of short statements by a variety of people.

Second, if you haven’t heard yet heard my hymns of praise (or if you’ve been convinced by them), you probably want to check out Zotero: a free research, bibliography, and annotation tool. It lives in your browser, can automatically capture citation-relevant information from library catalogs, and will also store a local copy of attached pdfs or screenshots — so you can read them on the subway, for example. This program will change your life.

Also, I’ve been adding sources to a shared group library at https://www.zotero.org/groups/perl14. If you join the group, you can, too!

  • Show instructions for installing Zotero
    1. Register for a free account at https://www.zotero.org/user/register/.
    2. Download Zotero at http://www.zotero.org/download/. Note that Zotero does not work with Internet Explorer, and that if you’re not using Firefox you’ll download two files: the Zotero standalone app, and the connector of your choice (for Chrome or Safari); otherwise, you’ll miss out on either the downloading or the one-click page grab.
    3. Open the Zotero pane, either by running Standalone or in Firefox by clicking on the Zotero button at the bottom right corner. Click the gear button and select Preferences. Go to the Sync tab and enter your account information there. Now Zotero will sync your files and references to their servers, so you won’t lose them even if your computer dies.
  • Show instructions for joining the group library
    • With Zotero installed and an account registered, go to https://www.zotero.org/groups/perl14.
    • Log in to the website if you haven’t already, and click the button to Request Membership. This generates an email to me, who will approve your request as quickly as possible. Feel free to email directly with a little nudge if you haven’t been added by 48 hours.
    • When you’ve successfully been added to the group, you will see a new folder at the bottom left of your Zotero pane, entitled “Perl14.” Click here to view, edit, or add to the class bibliography.
    • Double-clicking on any item in the center should open it; if you don’t see an arrow to the left of the name, it doesn’t have an attachment to open. See instructions below for when links don’t work.

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