Merging Itunes library files

I have all my music stored in one ITunes Media folder and have 2 different subsets of the music mapped to 2 different Ipods (so each subset has its own Itunes library file). I'm looking for an easy way to merge 2 different Itunes library files (so to have the music from the 2 ipods in one single library).
The 2 methods I know of are both cumbersome.
The first is to take the first library and add in it all the folders of the artists that compose the second library.
The second is to create a library with all my music and then to suppress everything I don't want in there.
Thanks.

Hi, Dorothy, and welcome to the Discussions.
Just once, you're going to have to hook up the old computer, to copy everything over to the new one.
Please see:
http://discussions.apple.com/message.jspa?messageID=1271401#1271401
and:
http://discussions.apple.com/message.jspa?messageID=607339

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"ITunes Library file cannot be saved"

Mesage appears on my Windows desktop when using ITunes: "ITunes Library file cannot be saved. There is not enough memory available." Looks like my music files are duplicated three times. I see all of my music album folders and songs in the following 3 folders: (1) under My Documents\My Music\ITunes\, (2) My Documents\My Music\ITunes\Music, and (3) My Documents\My Music\ITunes\ITunes Music. Which one do I delete? My ITunes Media Folder Library is supposed to be in \My Documents\My Music\iTunes\iTunes Music. Before deleting 2 extra folders, how can make sure their music is merged into the 1 that I keep without duplicates? I have ITunes Cloud and ITunes Match. Do those create duplicates?

From Jordan at Apple:
On a Mac, to fix "The iTunes Library file cannot be saved. There is not enough memory available.":
1) go to Library/Preferences and delete any files beginning with com.apple.iTunes.
2) go to Library/Preferences/ByHost and delete any files beginning with com.apple.iTunes.
3) restart
That should work. If not, he said the next step would be to rebuild your iTunes library by launching iTunes while hlding down the option key. This would mean reimporting your music, shows etc.

2 itunes library files

Hello all!...
My wife and I both have macs; she has a macbook and I a MBP. I store all our music on a lacie NAS and use an automator script on both MB's to connect to the libraries. You can read up on my setup here: http://busyashell.com/blog/articles/2007/02/06/how-i-share-our-itunes-library-wi th-multiple-macs-and-my-nas
The one problem I have is when I purchase music or download podcasts, my wife's library is not reflecting the new files and same if she purchases, I don't see them. I have to manually add them to my library. This is a major flaw in my setup described above.
How can I sync these two library files to reflect both of our changes, or is there a way for me to set up both macs to use one library file? I had thought about symlinking both macs to use a file stored on the NAS, or chronosync. Chronosync doesn't seem to be able to diff two files and append the diffs. Correct me if I'm wrong, and if I am, please point me to documentation.
The other issue I have is that this NAS is painfully slow. For some reason my wife's MB has a slightly faster pipe to the NAS than my MBP. I cannot figure out why.
Any input and suggestions would be greatly appreciated. I'd like to make this setup rock solid.
MPB, MB Mac OS X (10.4.10)

No. You cannot merge .itl files. What you can do is move a library in a portable shape from one computer to another. See Make a split library portable for details. You can run two independent libraries on the same computer using either multiple profiles or by using the method shown in How to open an alternate iTunes Library file or create a new one.
Once both libraries and both sets of media are on the one computer there it would be possible to export the playlists from one library (start with the one that only has one device synced to it), then import them into the other (which will become the main library) along with all of the content of the first, then consolidate and deduplicate. The advanced preferences to Keep... & Copy... should be turned off while attempting this.
Finally the device that has synced with the discarded library needs to be backed up and then restored using the main library to avoid data loss. See Recover your iTunes library from your iPod or iOS device for more details.
tt2

I have multiple libraries on an external drive. Somehow all the iTunes library files i.e. iTunes Library.itl, xml, itdb, Media folder, etc disappeared! Only the music files remain. Now when I start iTunes w/option it can't find any of the old libraries!

Help! I 'm using an old G4 powerbook, Mac OSX 10.5.8, iTunes ver 10. I have multiple iTunes libraries on an external drive. Everything was fine for a while, then all of the iTunes library files, i.e. iTunes Library.itl, xml, itdb, artwork folder, Media folder, etc mysteriously disappeared! Only the music files remain (thank god) So now when I start iTunes w/option key to choose a library, I can't choose any of them because iTunes won't recognize them. Because all the library stuff is missing. So can I re-create the library files? (I don't care if I lose my ratings)
Or should I create a new empty library on the external drive, then manually move all the music files to the Media folder in the new library?
I tried some stupid ideas like creating a new library just to start iTunes, then going into prefs and advanced, then under iTunes Media folder location, selecting the location of the old library on the external, to see if iTunes would then find all the music which is still there, but no workee.
I'm out of ideas, and I searched the archives.
Help! anyone?
Scott

I don't know if this is me adding files to iTunes when the external wasn't connected
it is.
is it OK to just keep deleting that library on the Air?
i wouldn't - at least not until i
mount the external
point iTunes media folder location back to the external via preferences > advanced
consolidate my library via file > library > organize library
The ntfs hasn't seem to be causing any problems, but I've always wanted to know.
in order for your Mac to write to NTFS drives, it needs some help by installing e.g. the NTFS 3G driver. apparently that or something similar is installed on your Mac already. preferably, it would be formatted for Mac but then windows machines would need to have e.g. MacDrive installed to recognize the drive.

Syncing iPhone to new iTunes w/o iTunes library file

My MBP's hard drive died and I got it replaced, so it's good as new - everything was clean, iTunes was empty, etc. I'm filling up the computer again, and I realised that I backed up all my music (the mp3 files/iTunes media folder), but I stupidly forgot to back up the iTunes library file.
So I have my iTunes filled with songs but no play count, playlists etc. All the playlists and information, however, still exist in my iPhone 4, which I haven't synced to my new laptop yet.
I'm preeetty sure because of my ****-up with not saving the library file, there's no way, but I still have to ask: is there any way to sync the song data and playlists from the iPhone back into iTunes? It's not the end of the world if I can't, but I built up all the playcounts, playlists, mixtapes over the past few years and I'm a little sad to lose them.

" This iphone already has content on it but I want to add songs from my old computer."
You cannot do this. You can have content from one and only one computer at a time on the iphone.
Have you tried restoring the iphone?

How to delete multiple old ITUNES LIBRARY files safely ?

I'd like to clean up my Itunes LIBRARY files, but don't know what's safe to do and not to do. (I have Itunes 8.1 / OSX10.4.11)
MY QUESTION IS TWOFOLD :
(1) how do I create a new Itunes library file now with today's date; and
(2) how do I delete multiple (old) Itunes library files, without risking the loss of what I've got ?
This all stems from exploring Itunes as a result of a problem I had today... when trying to import mp3's from my terrabyte drive, after about 150 successful mp3 track imports, Itunes froze and everything else on my MAC froze as well (constant spinning colored wheel). After many failed attempts to force quit Itunes, I turned off my MBPro. On restarting, Itunes tooks ages to "import" files. Eventually Itunes opened but with only half of my original tunes (1500+ songs 8.11GB) and had nothing from today's import.
I found a post suggesting to hold down OPTION while starting Itunes. Then I selected a file from my hard drive > me > music > Itunes > "Itune library" with the most recent date and shezam, Itunes once again has all my songs, as before. Nothing I imported from the terrabyte drive today appears however, but no matter.
In my "Itunes" file there appear MULTIPLE Itunes libraries ! such as Itunes library, Itunes Library (damaged), and as well a folder called "Previous Itunes Libraries" which itself contains multiple Itunes Library files and multiple "previous Itunes Library files" with dates back to 2007. These I want to clean up and delete .... should I ? ... Can I ?
I really could use some words of wisdom from the wise ! Thanks in advance

Whenever you install a new version of iTunes and run it teh first time, iTunes will create a backup of the current iTunes library file and copy it into \Music\iTunes\Previous iTunes libraries, then update the iTunes library file in \Music\iTunes\ for the current version of iTunes.

Trying to back up iPad to external hard drive, "iTunes library file cannot be saved. The disk you are attempting to use is full."

This issue is somewhat complex so I will try to explain it as clearly as I can. Any help will be greatly appreciated.
It all began when I kept getting popups from my iPad saying that I had not backed up since May. I realized that was pretty dangerous so I decided to finally try syncing it to iTunes, though I had avoided doing so for so long because I knew that when I tried there was no room on the computer. I then remembered that I have an external hard drive with plenty of storage space, so I got that out and set it up with a folder to move iTunes and the backup into.
On iTunes I went to the Advanced Preferences and changed iTunes Media Folder Location to the G: folder, with the keep organized box checked. I also copied the previous backups from the original C: drive to G: so that I could delete the ones on C:.
I used Junction Link Magic to link my now empty MobileSync backup on C: to a new (JLM would not work unless it was empty) backup folder on external hard drive G:.
I plugged in my iPad to iTunes to sync it, and while it was backing up I checked the new folder on G: to make sure that the backup was being put there. It was.
However, about halfway through I got the message "iTunes library file cannot be saved. The disk you are attempting to use is full."
My question is Why? If it is being made in a 1.5 terabyte hard drive now, and not the computer, why is there no disk space? My guess is that it must still somehow be saving to the computer. But how? And how can I get it to save solely on the G: drive where there is enough room?
I am running Windows XP and the latest version of iTunes.
An additional but not as crucial issue:
Much of my music has been lost, with the being displayed next to the songs in the iTunes library, and only 50 (purchased) songs remain on my iPad. This was because those missing songs were stored on a different external hard drive ( I:). However, I copied many of the music folders on I: over to G: so that everything could be together. I am wondering if it is possible for me to get these songs back onto my iPad. But this is not my most important issue right now, because I believe that once I get the first issue solved I can simply plug in I: and G: at the same time while syncing the iPad, and get the songs back.
Note: I have come to realize the iTunes program itself is still under Program Files in the C: drive. Does this have to do with anything?

Short term, free up some disk space. Long term, move the library to a bigger drive.
tt2

I just upgraded my mac book to 10.6.8 and downloaded the new version of itunes. When I try to open it and error message appears saying, "The iTunes Library file cannot be found or created. The default location for this file is in the "iTunes" folder.

I just upgraded my mac book to 10.6.8 and downloaded the new version of itunes. When I try to open it and error message appears saying, "The iTunes Library file cannot be found or created. The default location for this file is in the "iTunes" folder in the "Music" folder."
I have tried a few things but iTunes closes right after i click okay. Anyone know anything?

Look in your Home > Music folder. There should be an iTunes folder there and it should have a number of files and folders including one called library.itl You want to guide iTunes to that file. If you don't see that file or folder then in your next post you will have to be very specific as to what you do see or how you have your iTunes set up because that's where it should be according to default settings.

"The iTunes Library file cannot be found or created..."

I'm getting this error upon opening iTunes:
When I try to open iTunes with the option key, it asks me to find a library. I can navigate to my library and see the file, but it is grayed out and can't be selected. Prior to this i had been getting an error about iTunes not being able to save the library, but I thought it was coming from my backup app.
Any ideas? I can no longer open iTunes or access my music or videos.
Thanks!

OK.. I finally found an answer buried among a million other posts.
To fix this, click to open the iTunes app and immediately hold down the "Option" key. This will allow you to either create a new iTunes library file, or point the app to where the library is. In my case, I repointed it to the Music>iTunes folder where my library file was and this worked.
This is the link that helped me figure it out:
http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1589

TS3494 my iTunes has stopped working on my mac book pro 13" when i try oping it it saysThe iTunes Library file cannot be found or created. The default location for this file is in the "iTunes" folder in the "Music" folder.

my iTunes has stopped working on my mac book pro 13" when i try oping it it saysThe iTunes Library file cannot be found or created. The default location for this file is in the “iTunes” folder in the “Music” folder. i dont know what to do i need my itunes back

Hi pgarard1,
If you are having issues with launching iTunes after an update, you may want to take a look at the troubleshooting in the following article:
iTunes for Windows: Doesn't open after upgrading in Windows Vista or Windows 7
http://support.apple.com/kb/TS2363
Regards,
- Brenden

ITunes Library File Cannot be Saved. The Disk Cannot be Read From . . .

I use a MacBook Pro with a healthy battery. My iTunes songs are on a USB drive. The Database and XML files are on my MacBook. Power went out in my house and the USB drive shut off. The MacBook stayed up and running. Power came back, powered on the USB drive, open iTunes, and bang: This sorry error: iTunes Library File Cannot be Saved. The Disk Cannot be Read From or Written to.
The disks are healthy, did an fsck and ran disk verify/repair. No problems. Restart iTunes, same error. Obviously a corrupted Databse file. This wouldn't be a big deal if only the XML info would be useful and actually restore critical info such as play count and dates which is essential for the Not-So-Smart Playlist dependencies to work.
This is the third time I've been burned with corrupted iTunes "Database" files. I use "Database" in quotes because a true Database wouldn't crap out like this. It would be recoverable. It would understand a simple SQL "Where" statement. It would have a maintenance script and some means for recoverable backup beyond the lame process of copying the XML file. Or it would at least read in the info the XML file.
I am becoming disillusioned with iTunes and I'm beginning to yearn for my old Linux box running GTKPod which never failed me....

OK, here's an update - After doing the restore as mentioned having everything seemingly work, I erroniously downloaded the iTunes 7.4 & 7.4.1 updates. Now, about 80% of library is non-responsive, ie: shows up in iTunes, but clicking to play does nothing at all. the other 20% of my library plays, but it's not the song it is supposed to be playing. For example, clicking on a song from say, ABBA prodes a wonderful Gorillaz track :-/ (The same Gorillaz track which will not play if I select it...)
I reiterate: WE NEED A MEANS TO BACKUP OUR LIBRARIES RELIABLY!!!!!!!!!!

How can I locate my iTunes library files. When I click on my itunes icon the message appears, "The file iTunes Library.itl." cannot be found because it was created by a newer version of iTunes."

How can I locate my iTunes library files? When I click on my iTunes icon rather than my iTunes files I receive, " The file iTunes Library.itl." cannot be read because it was created by a newer version of iTunes." I have already tried to update my iTunes program.

Had same problem and solved it without having to reinstore any music or movies:
1. Delete old Library file
2. Go to the 'Previous iTunes Libraries' folder and copy one of the earlier files - note, they have a date extension, e.g. 'iTunes Library 2011-11-01'.
3. Paste this file in your iTuners folder and rename file by removing the date extension - 'iTunes Library'
You should have all your music and paylists in tact, unless it was a really old previous file.

ITunes doesn't create an "iTunes Library" file

I'm desperate - since a couple of days every time I restart my computer iTunes library is empty, I have to move all the content to the library again. And subscribe to all the 39 podcasts again!!!
Next day... everything starts from the beginning!
I've read the support pages for iTunes and found out that my iTunes doesn't save an "iTunes Library" file in the Music/iTunes folder. Instead, it creates hundreds of temporary files (iT 1.tmp, iT 2.tmp, iT 3.tmp, and so on).
It happened before upgrading to iTunes 10 - I upgraded thinking that it could help, but nothing changed.
Anyone had a similar problem? Please help me!

Yes, I moved the iTunes folder to the shared folder
Made an alias and moved it to my Users/myhome/music and removed the alias symbol.
If you moved the entire iTunes folder and created aliases, that would be the reason that iPhoto and iMovie can't find the proper file. You should only have moved the 'iTunes Music' folder
Many applications don't perform well when files are to be opened and stored using an alias.
I'm pretty sure iTunes creates an updated .xml file every time you make changes, but it's at the wrong location for iPhoto and iMovie to find it.
I tried what you did, by moving my (test) iTunes folder to the Shared folder, create an alias, renamed it to 'iTunes' and put it at ./Users/Username/Music.
Neither iPhoto and iMovie were able to find my (test) music files.
Those apps. will only look at ./Users/Username/Music/iTunes for the .xml file and obviously cannot find it using the alias.
I tried the same procedure using a symbolic link (a 'better' alias) and that worked out alright. You can create a symbolic link by using the Terminal (take a look at this brief tutorial), but it's more convenient to use SymbolicLinker. After installing it, you can then easily create a symlink of a file or folder by control-clicking on it and choosing 'Make Symbolic Link' from the contextual menu.
If you want to know more about symlinks in general, take a look at this Wiki or Google for "Symbolic Link Macintosh" (without the quotes) to find more articles.
While symlinks do work in this case (at least on my system), I will give you the link to the article which describes the 'Apple preferred way' to share your music (in case symlinks don't work on your system).
iTunes: How to share music between different accounts on a single computer tells you two methods. You can use either of them.
M
17' iMac 800 MHz, 768 MB RAM, 200 GB HD, DL burner Mac OS X (10.4.8) iTunes 7.0.2

I have a new PC and I am getting the message "The iTunes Library File cannot be saved. You do not have enough access privileges for this operation." I am the only one using this PC and I have Windows 7 Pro and have an administrator account. Help

Can anyone help me with this problem. ITunes message," The iTunes library file cannot be saved. You do not have enough access privileges for this operation." I have administrator account and transferred files from old PC. I downloaded new iTunes program on new PC. I synced my iPhone to new PC, no problem. I deleted old account after indicating shared files to new admin account. Can anyone help?

A belated reply, as the problems itunes has have discouraged me from using it much. If you uncheck the "read only" box, it doesn't stay that way! Next time you use it, the box comes up checked.
I'm still having that problem, even when I open iTunes as administrator.
I've yet to see the answer to this problem. I use itunes mostly to download audiobooks, and I'm ready to download more, and want to save them!

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hi I keep getting the dialog box " The iTunes Library file cannot be saved. You do not have enough access privileges for this operation"
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A belated reply, as the problems itunes has have discouraged me from using it much. If you uncheck the "read only" box, it doesn't stay that way! Next time you use it, the box comes up checked.
I'm still having that problem, even when I open iTunes as administrator.
I've yet to see the answer to this problem. I use itunes mostly to download audiobooks, and I'm ready to download more, and want to save them!

Merging Itunes library files

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