How to Show and Manage Libraries on File Explorer for Windows 11

 Libraries in Windows are a valuable feature that allows users to organize and access folders from multiple locations in a centralized manner. Although Libraries are hidden by default in Windows 10's File Explorer, enabling them can significantly enhance your file management experience, allowing for quicker access to important documents, music, pictures, and more.

Introduction

Libraries offer a structured way to manage files that are spread across various directories. By creating and customizing libraries, you can improve your workflow, making it easier to find and manage related files without navigating through multiple folders.

Steps to Show Libraries in File Explorer

Step 01: Open File Explorer

Start by launching File Explorer. You can do this by clicking the folder icon on the Taskbar or by pressing Windows + E on your keyboard.

Step 02: Access Folder Options

Once File Explorer is open, click on the View tab located at the top of the window. Next, click on the Options button on the far right to open the Folder Options dialog.

Step 03: Enable Libraries

In the Folder Options dialog box, switch to the View tab. Scroll down to find the option labeled "Show libraries" and check the box next to it. Click OK to apply the changes.

Step 04: Access Libraries

With Libraries enabled, you will now see them in the left pane of File Explorer, positioned below "This PC" and above "Network." Click on Libraries to expand it and view the default libraries such as Documents, Music, Pictures, and Videos.

Steps to Manage Libraries in File Explorer

Step 01: Create a New Library

To create a new library, right-click on Libraries in the left pane. From the context menu, select New and then choose Library. Name your new library according to its intended purpose (e.g., "Work Documents" or "Project Files").

Step 02: Add Folders to a Library

Right-click on your newly created library or any existing library, and select Properties. In the Properties window, click the Add button to browse for the folders you want to include. Once you locate the desired folder, click Include folder to add it to the library.

Step 03: Set a Default Save Location

Within the Properties window, you can designate a specific folder as the default save location. Select the folder you wish to set as the default, and click the Set save location button. This ensures that any files saved directly to the library will be stored in this designated folder.

Step 04: Remove Folders from a Library

If you want to remove a folder from a library, go back to the Properties window of the library. Select the folder you wish to delete and click the Remove button to eliminate it from the library.

Step 05: Customize Library View

You can tailor how files are displayed within a library by right-clicking on the library and selecting Properties. Use the Optimize this library for drop-down menu to choose an option that best fits the type of files contained in the library, such as General Items, Documents, Music, Pictures, or Videos.

Conclusion

Enabling and managing Libraries in Windows File Explorer provides a streamlined approach to organizing and accessing your files from various locations. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can enhance your file management experience, improving productivity and organization in your digital workspace. Libraries allow you to keep related files together, making it easier to find what you need quickly and efficiently.