alex hall

Q: I created a new library plus new playlists but cannot find the Library.xml file

Hello

 

I am re-building my iTunes files from scratch, a sort of ten-year 'spring clean' event. I created a new library using the Command Click on starting the application, and then started to rebuild new playlists from within the application. I can see the newly created Library folder containing the new 'iTunes Library.itl" file BUT I cannot see where the iTunes Music Library.xml file is. There surely must be one to save the playlist data, and presumably 'Get Info' should reflect todays date ... I can only see older versions.

 

Although everything seems to be working perfectly I certainly don't want to have to re-visit building Playlists from scratch for another ten years! Can anyone suggest what has happened to the .xml file?  

 

thanks and regards

Posted on Sep 17, 2016 3:50 AM

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Q: I created a new library plus new playlists but cannot find the Library.xml file

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  • Helpful answers

  • by Cunnla,

    Cunnla Cunnla Sep 17, 2016 11:24 AM in response to alex hall
    Level 4 (2,016 points)
    Desktops
    Sep 17, 2016 11:24 AM in response to alex hall

    You can create a .xml file by going to iTunes/File/Library/Export Library and that gives you the option to put the Library.xml file in your iTunes Media folder -- or anywhere you like.

    If you ever need to rebuild your playlists you can go to iTunes/File/Library/Import playlist and select that .xml file.

    Normally, you do not see the .xml file in your iTunes folder.

  • by Chris CA,Solvedanswer

    Chris CA Chris CA Sep 17, 2016 11:24 AM in response to alex hall
    Level 9 (79,611 points)
    iPhone
    Sep 17, 2016 11:24 AM in response to alex hall

    Newer versions of iTunes do not create the .xml file automatically.

    1. Open iTunes.
    2. From the menu bar at the top of your computer screen, choose iTunes > Preferences.
    3. Click the Advanced tab.
    4. Select "Share iTunes Library XML with other applications."

    See this -> About iTunes library files - Apple Support

     

    FYI: No need to create a new library. You aren't gaining anything and in fact you lose some data stored only in the .itl file. Date added is one thing.

    just delete/add/change what you want.