my library missing

dheadinda
i haven't opened my zotero for 3 or 2 weeks. today when i open my zotero all my files and library went gone and missing, what should i do to get all my files back? i really need that to my thesis, please help asappp
  • dstillman
    https://www.zotero.org/support/zotero_data#locating_missing_zotero_data
  • dheadinda
    i already found the 'sqlite' file but when i want to import it to zotero it failed. what should i do with the sqlite file to make my data back???
  • dstillman
    edited February 10, 2025
    The page explains exactly what to do and what information we'd need to help you if you're still having trouble. (It also says "Do not try to import an .sqlite file into Zotero via File → “Import…” — it won't work.")
  • dheadinda
    i already tried the "zotero.old" tips cause i think thats the only way i can do. but when i opened the zotero my data didnt restored. they say "welcome to zotero! view the quick start guide to learn ho to begin building your library etc..." its look like the first time i opened the zotero, what should i do then?? help me please it's really important to me :(
  • dstillman
    Sorry, we can’t help you if you don’t provide the information we ask for.
  • dheadinda
    The names, sizes, and dates of all files beginning with “zotero.sqlite” in your current data directory
    -zotero.sqlite, size: 1.148 kb, date 29/01/2025
    -zotero.sqlite.1.bak, size: 1.144 kb, date: 14/01/2025
    -zotero.sqlite.bak, size: 1.148 lb, date: 27/01/2025

    Whether there's a 'storage' folder containing subfolders with dates corresponding to your previous usage of Zotero
    -yes

    Whether your current data directory is in the default location (“Zotero” in your home folder)
    -yes

    When you last used Zotero on this computer, and what happened on your computer since then
    -i use zotero last month, i'm not sure when, but i think it's around january 26,27, or 28. nothin happened on my computer, i'm just wrote my thesis, thats all

    What you've tried so far
    -i tried to make 'zotero.old' cause i think that the only way i could do bcause i don't have sync or anything
  • adamsmith
    All of those Zotero databases are empty. Do you have a back-up of that folder from earlier? What operating system are you on?
  • dheadinda
    i don't think i have a back-up. for operating system, i'm not sure what syatem you're talking about
  • adamsmith
    Windows, Mac,.Linux?
  • dstillman
    edited February 12, 2025
    It's probably not going to matter. As the page explains, if there are folders in 'storage' but zotero.sqlite is 1 MB or 5 MB (i.e., an empty database), it likely means you used some sort of disk-cleanup tool and accidentally deleted the Zotero database and the automatic backups. Since you weren't syncing, your only other option would be to restore from a backup you made of this folder before you deleted those files. If you don't have that, I'm afraid there's no way to recover your data.
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