Q: When I try to open aperture (which has been working fine for months), I get this response: There was an error opening the database for the library “~/Pictures/Aperture Library.aplibrary”. Please help!!

Have you tried the troubleshooting basics found here: http://support.apple.com/kb/HT3805

I've had the above issue as well, and have tried all the troubleshooting basics. Repeatedly.

Now, trying to see if I can strip images from Aperture. Any ideas on best way to do that? I've managed to look at the package contents, search for cr2 files and I see all my images there but if I try to view, open or move them, nothing happens. What am I missing?

Sonny3300, your signature says "Aperture 2" - is that correct? Then you need this trouble shooting guide:

Aperture 2: Troubleshooting Basics: http://support.apple.com/kb/HT2945

What is your Operating system version and where is your library located? Have imported new images recently or changed the location of your library?

Regards

Léonie