I created a new library plus new playlists but cannot find the Library.xml file

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Level 1

123 points

I created a new library plus new playlists but cannot find the Library.xml file

Hello

I am re-building my iTunes files from scratch, a sort of ten-year 'spring clean' event. I created a new library using the Command Click on starting the application, and then started to rebuild new playlists from within the application. I can see the newly created Library folder containing the new 'iTunes Library.itl" file BUT I cannot see where the iTunes Music Library.xml file is. There surely must be one to save the playlist data, and presumably 'Get Info' should reflect todays date ... I can only see older versions.

Although everything seems to be working perfectly I certainly don't want to have to re-visit building Playlists from scratch for another ten years! Can anyone suggest what has happened to the .xml file?

thanks and regards

Posted on Sep 17, 2016 3:50 AM

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Answer 1

Cunnla

Level 6

8,263 points

Sep 17, 2016 11:24 AM in response to alex hall

You can create a .xml file by going to iTunes/File/Library/Export Library and that gives you the option to put the Library.xml file in your iTunes Media folder -- or anywhere you like.

If you ever need to rebuild your playlists you can go to iTunes/File/Library/Import playlist and select that .xml file.

Normally, you do not see the .xml file in your iTunes folder.

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Answer 2

Chris CA

Level 10

82,513 points

Sep 17, 2016 11:24 AM in response to alex hall

Newer versions of iTunes do not create the .xml file automatically.

Open iTunes.
From the menu bar at the top of your computer screen, choose iTunes > Preferences.
Click the Advanced tab.
Select "Share iTunes Library XML with other applications."

See this -> About iTunes library files - Apple Support

FYI: No need to create a new library. You aren't gaining anything and in fact you lose some data stored only in the .itl file. Date added is one thing.

just delete/add/change what you want.

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