RefWorks

Why are the BU Libraries discontinuing RefWorks?

We want to ensure our funding is used to provide our users with the best access to the tools they need to do their research, and regularly evaluate our offerings. Because there are excellent free alternatives to RefWorks, BU Libraries is discontinuing its RefWorks subscription while providing ongoing guidance for how to use free options, such as Zotero.

How is Zotero different from RefWorks?

Zotero is an app-based reference manager, whereas RefWorks is web-based. The references you save in Zotero exist on your hard drive, but they can be synced to a free online Zotero account. Nearly everything you do with RefWorks can also be done in Zotero.

What are my options for keeping my references and attachments?

You can export your RefWorks references in an RIS file, which can be imported into a different reference manager. We recommend Zotero for this. Your RefWorks attachments can be saved to Dropbox, where you can then download them or attach them to references in Zotero.

How do I export my RefWorks references?

  1. Open the RefWorks folder that contains the references you would like to export.
  2. Select Share in the top toolbar.
    Under Format, choose RIS.
  3. Under ID Output, choose the RefWorks default option or the option that works best for you.
  4. Select Export. The file(s) will be saved to your Downloads folder (or whichever folder you’ve designated for downloads).

How do I download attachments from my RefWorks account?

You have a few options for this. You can download each file individually, or use Dropbox to export your files all at once. To do this, follow these steps:

  1. Create an account at https://www.dropbox.com/
  2. In a new tab, sign in to RefWorks.
  3. Click your name in the upper right corner of the RefWorks interface. Choose Settings.
  4. Scroll to the Dropbox section and click the log in button. This will link your RefWorks and Dropbox accounts and create a folder in your Dropbox account containing all of your RefWorks attachments. You can then download these from Dropbox to save elsewhere or import to another citation manager.

How do I import my references in Zotero?

Once you’ve exported your references from RefWorks, follow these steps:

  • In Zotero, click on File > Import.
  • Keep the default File option and click Next.
  • Choose the RIS file you exported from RefWorks and click Open.
  • Keep the default settings in the Options menu and click Next.
  • Your references will be saved in a new Zotero folder. You can drag these references into other folders if you wish.
    • Please note: this process will not export any files you’ve attached to your references.

How do I attach documents to Zotero references?

You can do this in one of two ways:

  • The easiest way to do this is to drag a file from a folder (or your desktop) onto a Zotero reference. This will attach the file to the reference.
  • Alternatively, you can click on a reference in Zotero and add an attachment in the right pane:
    • Click on the paperclip icon.
    • Click the + (Add) icon.
    • Choose File.
    • Choose the file you want to attach and click Open.

What about my folders? Can I keep my organization intact?

Yes, in a way. Here is the easiest way to achieve this:

  • Create identical folders in Zotero.
  • Export each of your RefWorks folders individually.
  • Import each RIS export file, moving the references into the appropriate Zotero folder before going on to the next.

How can I get help with this process?

Please write to our librarians at ask@bu.edu for assistance.