The Zotero File Utility Plugin is designed to provide additional functionality that complements the significant improvements in functionality and user experience introduced in Zotero version 7. While Zotero's developers have made important strides, this plugin addresses specific needs for users who require more control over file management within Zotero.
Zotero typically keeps the attachment title and the filename on disk separate. This can create inconsistencies and confusion, especially when managing large libraries. This plugin ensures that the attachment title in Zotero always matches the filename on disk, keeping your library organized and consistent, especially when using linked files. This synchronization runs in the background as long as it is enabled.
Zotero supports the conversion of linked files to stored files but does not provide an option to do the reverse. This plugin introduces an option to convert stored files into linked files within your specified Linked Attachments Base Directory. This feature can be accessed under the Tools -> Manage Attachments menu in Zotero and is useful for advanced users who manage their Zotero libraries across multiple devices or prefer to use external storage solutions like iCloud, Dropbox or Google Drive.
- Download the latest release (.xpi file) from the Latest Release Page.
- Note: If you're using Firefox as your browser, right-click the
.xpifile and select "Save As.."
- Note: If you're using Firefox as your browser, right-click the
- In Zotero, click
Toolsin the top menu bar and then clickAdd-ons. - Go to the
Extensionspage and then click the gear icon in the top right. - Select
Install Add-on from file.... - Browse to where you downloaded the
.xpifile and select it.
Plugins in Zotero are not automatically activated when installed. You must manually enable them by toggling them on under Tools -> Add-ons.
The configuration for the Zotero File Utility Plugin can be accessed under Zotero → Settings.
By default, the plugin’s settings focus on automatically synchronizing the filename and the attachment title. This option ensures that the attachment titles in Zotero match the filenames on disk, improving file management and organization.
These options are saved as Zotero preferences variables, which are also available through the Config Editor.
Suggestions/improvements are welcome! Please feel free to submit a pull request or open an issue for any feature requests or bugs. I would be more than happy if the development team at Zotero considered implementing these features as part of the native functionality.
I'm not a professional developer in JavaScript or any other programming language, nor am I an experienced collaborator in open-source projects. Much of this plugin was developed with the help of ChatGPT, so while I’ve done my best to ensure it works as intended, there may be quirks or unforeseen issues.
Warning: This plugin is provided "as is" without any warranties or guarantees. The author takes no responsibility for any issues or damages that may result from the use of this plugin. :)
This project is licensed under the MIT License. Please see the license file for more information.