EndNote

A guide to basic setup and use of EndNote for citation management.

What is an EndNote Library?

Your EndNote Library is a file that contains all of your references. EndNote allows users to have as many libraries as needed to support collaboration and sharing, but most users will only need one library.

The first time you use EndNote, you will need to create your EndNote library file.

Create a Brand New Library on a PC

Step 1: Create a new library file

To create your EndNote library, be sure you have downloaded EndNote and then open it
A pop-up box will appear (pictured below)
Select "Create a new library"

Step 2: Save the file to your documents folder

A "save" dialog box will open.
Rename the file, or keep it as the default name "My EndNote Library."
Save to either your Documents folder or your Desktop. Do not save to cloud storage.

Step 3: You're done!

EndNote should now open up your new library, ready to fill with references.

Create a Brand New Library on a Mac

Step 1: Create a new library file
•   To create your EndNote library, be sure you have downloaded EndNote and then open it
•   A pop-up box will appear (pictured below)
•   Select "Create a new library"

Step 2: Save the file to your documents folder
•   A "save" dialog box will open.
•   Rename the file, or keep it as the default name "My EndNote Library."
•   Save to either your Documents folder or your Desktop. Do not save to cloud storage.

Step 3: You're done!
•   EndNote should now open up your new library, ready to fill with references.

Troubleshooting note:
•   Sometimes when users open EndNote on a Mac for the first time, the "Create a new library" prompt does not appear and they see what appears to be an empty screen (pictured below)
•   If this happens, to create a new library, look to the navigation menu on the top. When EndNote is open, it should have EndNote options available.
•   Select "File" and "New" to create a new library.