backup without the zotero.sqlite file

guidogm · December 6, 2023

Hello, I recently changed my computer and made a backup of my zotero/locate folder. However, I forgot to save the zotero.sqlite file. So, I wonder if it is possible to restore the zotero.sqlite from the locate folder or sth similar, and what would be the process to restore all my library in the new computer.
Thanks,

tim820 · December 7, 2023

It depends on what copies/backups of your data folder/sqlite you have access to, and/or whether you were syncing online. Restoring from backups, and the options for transferring a library from one computer to another are described here:
https://www.zotero.org/support/zotero_data#backing_up_your_zotero_data
https://www.zotero.org/support/kb/transferring_a_library

guidogm · December 19, 2023

Hi, the problem is that my zotero.sqlite file is lost, and according to the links you provide, the only solution is to import one by one the documents from my backout storage (Retrieve metadata). However, I think that my zotero.sqlite file could be restored with my account web library that contains all the folders and structure of my old collection. Is it possible to do that?

fcheslack · December 19, 2023

If the data in your web library is up to date, you can just set up sync in your Zotero app on your new computer.
https://www.zotero.org/support/sync
This is the first option for restoring Zotero data:
https://www.zotero.org/support/zotero_data#restoring_your_zotero_data_using_zotero_syncing