Once again - upgrading iTunes - reports library file damaged, all missing

So, I've finally figured it out. When ever I upgrade iTunes, the new version doesn't like the old library file and marks it as damaged.
All content is lost - as far as itunes is concerned. But it's right there on the hard drive. In the itunes folder.
Making a new library file and point the preferences to the content still results in nothing showing up.
No, I have not sync'd since this happened. I have many files in the itunes folders on my HD where the content is not loaded on my itv4.
Is there a magic key combo to have it 'look' at the actual HD contents in the itunes folded and 'find' it ?
No, holding down SHIFT when launching itunes and then creating a new file is not the solution, nor selecting the old library file (says it's damaged).

For general library squiffiness following an upgrade the easiest thing is to restore your last backup, but I guess if it were that simple you wouldn't be here.
*Empty/corrupt library after upgrade/crash*
Hopefully it's not been too long since you last upgraded iTunes, in fact if you get an empty/incomplete library immediately after upgrading then with the following steps you shouldn't lose a thing or need to do any further housekeeping. In the *Previous iTunes Libraries* folder should be a number of dated iTunes Library files. Take the most recent of these and copy it into the iTunes folder. Rename *iTunes Library.itl* as *iTunes Library (Corrupt).itl* and then rename the restored file as *iTunes Library*. Start iTunes. Should all be good, bar any recent additions to or deletions from your library.
See iTunes Folder Watch (Windows) or Music Folder Files Not Added (Mac) and Super Remove Dead Tracks (Mac) for tools to catch up with any changes since the backup file was created.
When you get it all working *make a backup!*
tt2

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