Move the Music into iTunes from Library

I have a new laptop, that is unfortunately running Windows 8. I have my iTunes library that I transferred (per iTunes direction) to my external drive. I downloaded iTunes 11 on the new computer (I also upgraded my old computer's iTunes to 11 before I started this). I though I could just keep my library on the external hard drive, but I experienced the same problem I am about to explain. So, I transferred my library per Apple instruction from the external hard drive to the iTunes folder on the new computer. Now, when I try to select the new Library folder (shift, program start up iTunes...etc.) I see the file, but I can't select it. If I keep clicking into the folders I do not see any of the songs in the folders (Music/Artist/Album/Track). However, if I view any of the files on the external hard drive or on the computer using windows explore, I can see all of the files fine - they are there. What am I missing here? I have spent hours on this (it is a large library) and I am beyond frustrated. Please, can anyone help me out there!