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Zotero-arXiv Vanity Bridge Plugin

A Zotero plugin that automatically detects when a user adds an arXiv paper to their library, fetches the HTML-rendered version from arXiv Vanity in the background, and stores both the PDF and the readable HTML version as linked attachments within the same Zotero entry. The plugin runs on user machines and requires zero manual intervention after initial setup.

PLUGIN

14 weeks • 70% confidence

Value Proposition

Eliminates the manual two-step download process entirely—researchers get both formats automatically in one place, removing context-switching and file management friction. Saves 2-5 minutes per paper × hundreds of papers per researcher per year. Works inside their existing tool (Zotero) with zero workflow change.

Target Audience

Active arXiv researchers (physics, math, CS, ML) who use Zotero and regularly read preprints; primarily PhD students and postdocs in STEM fields

Key Features

  • Auto-detect arXiv DOI/URL in Zotero entry and trigger Vanity fetch
  • Store HTML snapshot as linked attachment alongside PDF in Zotero
  • Batch processing: retroactively fetch Vanity versions for existing arXiv entries in library
  • And more, with full implementation detail...

Tech Stack

JavaScript (Zotero plugin API) Zotero plugin development documentation Node.js for local testing Fetch API / HTTP client for Vanity requests
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Original Problem

Researchers waste time manually converting between paper formats when managing academic citations

Academic researchers using Zotero spend significant time manually downloading papers from arXiv and then separately fetching the HTML-rendered versions (arXiv Vanity) for better readability, creating friction in their research workflow. Current citation management tools don't automate this multi-step process, forcing researchers to context-switch between tools and manually manage duplicate files. This repetitive task compounds across hundreds of papers in a researcher's library, creating cumulative time waste.

Score: 17.5%