Looks like no one’s replied in a while. To start the conversation again, simply ask a new question.

Your photo library is either in use by another application or has become unreadable

HI,


I am not able to launch iphoto properly. Whenver iphoto is launched, it shows a message

"Your photo library is either in use by another application or has become unreadable"


I tried fixing it by repairing the photo library database and examine and repair iphoto file permission but it didnt worked.


This issue is a perisistent and was fixed couple o times earlier by apple support but now I am no longer entittled to free support and cant get it fixed


Thanks in advance.

MacBook Pro, Mac OS X (10.6.8)

Posted on Aug 28, 2011 3:05 AM

Reply
7 replies

Aug 29, 2011 10:19 AM in response to hectar

Make a temporary, backup copy (if you don't already have a backup copy) of your library and apply the three fixes in order as necessary.



Fix #1


1 - delete the iPhoto preference file, com.apple.iPhoto.plist, that resides in your HD/User/Home(User uploaded file)/ Library/Preferences folder.

2 - delete iPhoto's cache file, Cache.db, that is located in your HD/User/Home(User uploaded file)/Library /Caches/com.apple.iPhoto folder.

3 - launch iPhoto and try again.


NOTE: If you're moved your library from its default location in your Home/Pictures folder you will have to point iPhoto to its new location when you next open iPhoto by holding down the Option key when launching iPhoto. You'll also have to reset the iPhoto's various preferences.


Fix #2


Launch iPhoto with the Command+Option keys held down and rebuild the library.


User uploaded file


Select the options identified in the screenshot.


Fix #3


Using iPhoto Library Manager to Rebuild Your iPhoto Library


  • Download iPhoto Library Manager and launch.
  • Click on the Add Library button, navigate to your Home/Pictures folder and select your iPhoto Library folder.
  • Now that the library is listed in the left hand pane of iPLM, click on your library and go to the File ➙ Rebuild Library menu option
  • In the next window name the new library and select the location you want it to be placed.
  • Click on the Create button.

  • Note: This creates a new library based on the LIbraryData.xml file in the library and will recover Events, Albums, keywords, titles and comments but not books, calendars or slideshows. The original library will be left untouched for further attempts at fixing the problem or in case the rebuilt library is not satisfactory.


    OT

    Your photo library is either in use by another application or has become unreadable

    Welcome to Apple Support Community
    A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple ID.