Transferring my entire music library - desktop to laptop. HOW??

Question

GReetings! I have my iTunes on my old desktop PC. All 875 pieces of music.
I Just got a new laptop which will replace that 8-year old desktop. NOW, how
do I migrate my entire old music library to iTunes on the new
laptop?? I tried copying the playlists one at a time. It seemes to work, but
when I tried to play some pieces, there's a '!' by every selection that says
"the original can't be found". WHAT HAVE I DONE WRONG? Hope someone
can help. The last thing i want do do is get out 150+ CDs and load them into
my laptop!!! I shouldn't have to do that!

Answer 1

These are two possible approaches that will normally work to move an existing library to a new computer.
Method 1
Backup the library with this User Tip.
Deauthorize the old computer if you no longer want to access protected content on it.
Restore the backup to your new computer using the same tool used to back it up.
Keep your backup up-to-date in future.
Method 2
Connect the two computers to the same network. Share your <User's Music> folder from the old computer and copy the entire iTunes library folder into the <User's Music> folder on the new one. Again, deauthorize the old computer if no longer required.
Both methods should give the new computer a working clone of the library that was on the old one. As far as iTunes is concerned this is still the "home" library for your devices so you shouldn't have any issues with iTunes wanting to erase and reload.
I'd recommend method 1 since it establishes an ongoing backup for your library.
Note if you have failed to move contacts and calendar items across you should create one dummy entry of each in your new profile and iTunes should  merge the existing data from the device.
If your media folder has been split out from the main iTunes folder you may need to do some preparatory work to make it easier to move. See make a split library portable.
Should you be in the unfortunate position where you are no longer able to access your original library or a backup then then see Recover your iTunes library from your iPod or iOS device for advice on how to set up your devices with a new library with the maximum preservation of data.
tt2