I Get an Error When Trying to Consolidate Library

Question

I am trying to consolidate my music library with Itunes, but when I choose "Consolidate Library" I get the message "Copying music failed. The file name was invalid or too long" Does anyone know how to fix this? I'm really getting fed up with Itunes and can't seem to get any support. Please help.

Answer 1

Hi, globe9.
This can be a tricky problem to figure out since iTunes doesn't specify what file name - nor is there any documentation saying what determines when a file name - is "invalid or too long".
We had one user report that he was able to use his/her keen eyesight to note the last file that appeared before the error message appeared and it turned out that file was the cause of his/her trouble.
If your eyesight isn't that keen, I'd suggest concentrating on the file name being too long possibility.
The entire directory path leading to the file is considered part of the file name so, as an example, iTunes' default settings might place a particular file at C:\Documents and Settings\user name\My Documents\My Music\iTunes\iTunes Music\artist folder\album folder\whatever.m4a.
Is the directory path leading to your consolidated location much longer than that?
polydorus has suggested a way to look over your file names: Assuming your music is currently in the default location, make your way there with Windows Explorer and select List in the View menu menu and see if anything stands out as being unusual.