All files in iTunes gone -- how do I rebuild??

[Apple!Fre@k]

So I deleted the Plist files because iTunes would constantly crash when it was "processing" the TV show I was downloading after it reached 100% on the download. SO very annoying. Didn't realize deleting the Plist files also deletes all of the preferences and just about everything else except the music, video, etc. files themselves. So I have all of my iTunes files on my external hard drive where they have always been, but how do I point iTunes to it?

I vaguely remember that I have to open iTunes while holding down some key? Is that right? Which key(s) again?

Thanks!

 

[maflynn]

The easiest method is to restore a backup.

 

[DewGuy1999]

To set the location of your iTunes library:

With iTunes open, click on iTunes in the menu bar, scroll down to Preferences... go to the Advanced tab, under iTunes Media Folder location click the change button and point it to your Library. Close the Preferences....

 

[solaris]

Restore from backup!

 

[GGJstudios]

Didn't realize deleting the Plist files also deletes all of the preferences and just about everything else except the music, video, etc. files themselves.

That's because .plist is an abbreviation of "preference list". Deleting the .plist removes only your preferences, but nothing else. It will not remove your playlists, album art, music or video files, etc.

So I have all of my iTunes files on my external hard drive where they have always been, but how do I point iTunes to it?

iTunes > Preferences > Advanced > iTunes Media folder location

I vaguely remember that I have to open iTunes while holding down some key? Is that right? Which key(s) again?

From iTunes help:

To create or use a different iTunes library:

1. If iTunes is open, quit it.
2. Hold down the Option key while you open iTunes.
3. In the dialog that appears, do one of the following:

• To create a new library, click Create Library.
• To choose a different library, click Choose Library.

 

[Apple!Fre@k]

That's because .plist is an abbreviation of "preference list". Deleting the .plist removes only your preferences, but nothing else. It will not remove your playlists, album art, music or video files, etc.

iTunes > Preferences > Advanced > iTunes Media folder location

From iTunes help:

That was it! Holding down the option key! Thanks!