Q: Need help putting in new library
I have 2 computers and one has an old i-tunes library and I would like to replace it completely. How can I delete the library that is on this computer ( but leave the system sounds, etc., that it also shows in this library) and just import a new library stored on my backup disc? Thanks. Gary
Posted on Feb 26, 2012 8:34 AM
Which operating system version? This is the first I have heard of system sounds being stored in an iTunes library.
Note that a library isn't just one thing. Typically a library (I prefer to say a collection since "library" is often used to refer to a specific file) consists of: 1 - library file(s) that store data such as what media files you have and where; 2 - media files which are the things actually played; 3 - associated support files such as artwork folders. These are all stored in the iTunes folder a users's Home > Music folder.
If you want to get rid of a library, get rid of that folder. If you want to replace it with a backed up library, put that library in its place. Remember though that a library isn't just one file but a series of files and folders in a specific organization. I don't know what is on your backup disc (or did you mean "disk" which is a hard drive, vs. "disc" which is a CD or DVD?) but if it is just media files then you don't have a library as such, just a bunch of media files.
What are the iTunes library files? - http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1660
More on iTunes library files and what they do - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ITunes#Media_management
iTunes 9: Understanding iTunes Media Organization - http://support.apple.com/kb/ht3847
Image of iTunes folder structure Dec. 2011 - https://discussions.apple.com/thread/3547807
see also:
Image of folder structure and explanation of different iTunes versions (turingtest2 post) - https://discussions.apple.com/message/13025536
Posted on Feb 26, 2012 8:44 AM