How to Consolidate iTunes Library

Last Updated: December 17, 2021

If your music files are strewn about your computer in various folders, you can use iTunes' library consolidation feature to build a single, central music library. This wikiHow article will show you how to organize your music in iTunes by consolidating your library.

Method 1

Method 1 of 2:

Get Organized

1
Access the main iTunes pulldown menu from your dock or menu bar.
2
Select the “Preferences” menu.

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3
Select the “Advanced” pane of the Preferences menu.
4
Click on the “Keep iTunes Music Folder Organized” and “Copy Files to iTunes” options. This should produce a check-mark in the box next to each option. If the boxes were already checked, keep them as is.

Method 2

Method 2 of 2:

Consolidate iTunes Library

1
Access the “File” pulldown menu from your iTunes dock or menu bar.
2
Highlight the “Library” option. A menu of further options should appear off to the side.
3
Select “Consolidate Library.”

Community Q&A

Question

I have 3 separate libraries on one laptop and I want to put them all on the on iPod. How can I do this?

Community Answer

Connect your iPod to your PC. Then drag your iTunes libraries to your Windows Explorer, then it will become a file. Then just simply drag it on your iPod hard drive and you are now done.
Question

Will I be able to "sync" all my Apple devices to this newly organized library without combining the music from those in my family that do not wish to use this "new" iTunes library?

Community Answer

Yes. You can sync and turn off family sharing.