How to Re-populate the iTunes library window after re-installing XP?

I intend to save and copy back the iTunes artwork and metadata files kept in 'My Documents'.

These should be stored in the iTunes folder in My Music.
Copy the iTunes folder to teh external.
After you reinstall the OS and install iTunes, copy the iTunes folder from the external back to \My Documents\My Music.
Then open iTunes and everything should be the same as it was.
Make sure the external drive uses the same drive letter after you reinstall the OS.

Hey Chris,

I'm attempting to do the same thing but want to keep the music on the external disk. I've tried changing the Music folder location to e:\iTunes Music (where's it's been for at least a year) but the library is still "empty"

When I try to sync the iPod I get the following message:
"The iPod "name" is synced with another iTunes library. An iPod can be synced with only one iTunes library at a time. What would you like to do: 'Erase and Sync' (replaces the contents of this iPod with the contents of this iTunes library) or 'Transfer Purchases' (copies iTunes Store purchases this computer is authorized to play from this iPod to this iTunes library)."

Any ideas what I can do?

Thanks!

I'm attempting to do the same thing

What? Resintall the OS?

but want to keep the music on the external disk. I've tried changing the Music folder location to e:\iTunes Music (where's it's been for at least a year) but the library is still "empty"

Did you copy the iTunes folder before you formatted and reinstalled the OS?
And you copied this back to the original location?

When you reinstall the OS, it will be a new library (although identical to the previous library) to the iPod so you will have to resync it.