Deleting Pictures file deleted iPhoto library?

There is a file on my hard drive entitled "Pictures". I seldom use it and really do not understand it's purpose, and had no idea it is connected to iPhoto. I decided, in the interest of saving hard drive space, to delete the entire file. After doing so I was astonished to find out that my picture library was gone from iPhoto. Fortunately I have an external drive using Time Machine to back up my hard drive. I was under the impression that a iPhoto library was impossible to delete accidentally. I don't know how many people are aware of this problem but think my experience may help someone avoid deleting a iPhoto library. I would be interested in hearing of others who have experienced the same dilemma.
Much obliged.

1 - Pictures is a folder -  not a file
2 - by default your iPhoto library is in your pictures folder
3 - you should never blindly delete files or oflders withou being sure of what you are deleting
4 - There is nothing to keep you from deleting the iPhoto library or any other critical resource except being careful
5 - the Good News is that you have a backup so you are able to easliy recover from this user error
Have a happy New Year
LN

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