How to keep iTunes from adding file to library when just played?

[Imola Ghost]

In the preferences section of iTunes I have it unchecked to "Copy files to iTunes Media folder when adding to library" but not sure why it would add the file.

I have all of my music stored in the default location for iTunes and when I play a file outside of iTunes, it will add it to the library database.

 

[apfhex]

Any file played in iTunes will be added to the library database regardless of the location, that's just how it works. But it shouldn't copy/move the original file if you have that option unchecked.

 

[devburke]

iTunes is based on library management. There's an option you can uncheck so that it won't copy the file to the iTunes library folder, but it will still index the file in its library. If you're just looking to play a file without adding it to your library, use QuickTime.