HT203225: If you don't see your entire library after you update iTunes on your Mac or PC

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pgar12

Q: Is there a way to combine all iTune libraries created from updates?

Each time I update iTunes the previous library is not included so I end up renaming the Previous library to the default library. This time it did not work and over 2,000 songs are missing. Is there a way to combine all the iTunes libraries on my PC into a single one? Also, can the Apple developers create an update program that leaves the existing library untouched?

iTunes, Windows 10

Posted on Jul 8, 2016 8:05 PM

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Q: Is there a way to combine all iTune libraries created from updates?

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  • by Limnos,

    Limnos Limnos Jul 8, 2016 8:24 PM in response to pgar12
    Level 9 (53,643 points)
    Mac OS X
    Jul 8, 2016 8:24 PM in response to pgar12

    You don't really have duplicate libraries. The library file is only a catalog list of media tracks on your computer. If you tear up an addressbook does that mean all your friends no longer live where they used to?  What you are doing is the equivalent of losing your current addressbook and having to make a new one from an old copy.  All the media are still on your computer.  You can add them to iTunes again by dragging your media folder to the iTunes Automatically Add To iTunes folder.  Of course any that are not currently listed in your library will be added as new items and if they were in a playlist they won't be part of that anymore.

     

    Make a backup before you update.  That way should you need to rebuild the library file you will have one that is completely up to date.  In fact make a backup before you do anything radical on your computer such as installing new software by anybody.