Delete iTunes library - how it works
If you have problems in iTunes, you should delete the media library completely. This usually stays the same even when you reinstall iTunes.
Completely delete iTunes library
When deleting your iTunes library, you can choose what you want to remove: only the index file of the library or additionally the individual songs.
- Start iTunes and open Settings.
- Under "Advanced" you will find the location of the iTunes media. Open this path and then close iTunes.
- Then delete the three files "iTunes Library.itl", "iTunes Library Genius" and "Tools" and empty the recycle bin.
Delete media data in iTunes
Your iTunes library is now completely deleted. In addition, you can now remove saved songs or videos. However, this only makes sense if you have saved your music somewhere else.
- To back up the media, copy the contents of the iTunes Media folder to an external hard drive. You will also find the folder in the path named. This step is only necessary if you want to keep the files.
- Now delete the "iTunes Media" folder and empty the recycle bin. This can take a long time because the music files take up a lot of memory.
If you want to set up the media library from scratch, you have to save the media files and your playlists externally. We will show you how to export your iTunes library in another practical tip.