Libraries are a new feature in Windows 7 that allow you to organize and view your files from multiple locations in a single view. This makes it easier to organize and locate files without a lot of hassle. Below are the steps and information needed to create and organize libraries on your own PC. Once setup libraries will make you file management tasks much easier and effective.

For more information about the basics if libraries please read my prior article listed below.

Create a New Library

There are several default libraries in Windows 7 which include Documents, Pictures, Music and Videos but you can create your own to help you organize the way you want. The steps for creating a new library are listed below.

1.       Click Start | User Name (top of right side of menu) | Libraries

2.       From within the Libraries folder click New Library on the toolbar

3.       Type a new for the new library and then press Enter

Include Folders in a Library

You can include folders from different locations on your computer or network in a library which allows you to view and organize the files as a collection. For example, you have several folders of pictures on your computer and your husband has several on his. You can add all the folders, including his if you are networked, to one library allowing you to view all the pictures in a single location. The original folders and photos do no move so they can still be accessed outside the library.

Include a Folder:

Right-click the folder that you want to include in the library then select Include in Library and then select the appropriate library. You can also highlight the folder and select Include in Library drop-down in the toolbar.

Remove a Folder:

From Windows Explorer (file folder icon on taskbar) navigate to folder to remove. From the left pane (navigation pane) select the library you want to remove the folder from. Highlight (single-click) the folder to be removed in the library then left-click to bring up menu. From the menu select Remove location from library.

Customize Library

There are a couple of settings for customizing a library in Windows 7. One is to change the default save location and the other is to change the library type (documents, music, videos or pictures).

                Change Default Save Location:

1.       Open the library that needs to be modified

2.       Above the file list select Locations

3.       From within the Library Locations dialog box, right-click a location (not the current default) then select Set as default save location.

4.       Click OK

Change Library Type:

1.       Right-click the library to be modified then select Properties

2.       From the Optimize this library for list select a file type and the click on OK

That is all there is to libraries! Using libraries is a quick and easy way to help you and your family keep your files neat and organized.