How can I keep iTunes from automatically reseting it's library? Or, a faster way to bring my files back?

I have decided recently to back up all my audio to iTunes, seeing at it is a powerful tool for audio archiving. My issue is that I want to keep my hard drive free of the enormous library, so I have an external drive dedicated to it. In the advanced features, I can set that. But, why in the world does iTunes insist on relocating my library when I forget to plug in the external disc? I know why, to make a smooth experience for me in the short term -- since these are built for a mass market that doesn't think -- but for me, I know what I want, but sometimes I'm forgetful. So if Apple wants a smooth experience for me, then how about this oversight? The reorganization process ("keep iTunes organized" preference) goes through all 300 hours of audio library by piecemeal, when it should just be looking for changes and surpassing anything that doesn't look different. Perhaps it is only looking for changes but can only do so by piecemeal, anyhow this seems like something that could be devised in preferences. Am I missing something? Can't iTunes send a warning before importing in to a reset library? Does this question make sense?

If it reverts to default because you forgot to plug the drive in, plug the drive in and start iTunes with the option key held down and show it the library on the external.
Does this question make sense?
The first part did. I started to drift after the "keep organized". 

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