Manage Documents and Files With Libraries on Windows 7

In previous versions of Windows it could be a tedious task managing music, photos, documents and other files that are scattered in different directories on your hard drive.  Today we’re going to look at the new Libraries feature in Windows 7 that allows you to organize folders from multiple locations in one spot.

Using Libraries

1. To access your libraries you’ll need to open up an explorer window.  For example, click on your user name in the start menu.
   
2. Click Libraries from the left-hand hand side of the window to view the four default Libraries (Music, Pictures, Documents and Videos) (Click to enlarge image)
   
3. Libraries show files that are stored in different locations on your computer.  For example the music library (see below). (Click to enlarge image)
   

Create Your Own Libraries

1. You don’t have to limit yourself to the four default libraries, you can create your own. To do this open an explorer window and click on Libraries.
2. Now click ‘New Library’ (Click to enlarge image)
   
3. Then, like with a new folder, you need to give it a name.
4. When you first access the Library you’ll be prompted to add folders and files to it. Click include a folder and click a folder to include.
   
5. If you want to add more folder locations to any of the libraries just click on the ‘location’ hyperlink at the top of the libraries’ window. The number stands for the current number of locations in the library.
   
6. You can click the Add button to browse and add more locations. Or if you decide you don’t want the location to existing in the Library anymore simply click ‘Remove’.  When you’re happy with your changes click ‘OK’
   
7. An alternative way to add a folder to a library is, whilst browsing, right-click on the folder and select ‘Include in library’.  Then choose a library and it will be added. (Click to enlarge)
   

To some of you this may seem like a subtle change with little point but I assure you, it really does make browsing around your computer much easier to do

Related Posts

• November 3, 2009 -- XP Users – Welcome to Windows 7 (2)
• July 16, 2009 -- Windows 7 gets a REAL test!
• August 17, 2011 -- Which Smart Phone?
• September 4, 2010 -- 10 things you need to know about your IT
• March 1, 2010 -- How to remove toolbars from Internet Explorer

Tags: add, directories, Documents, files, how to use, Libraries, Library, location, Management, microsoft, new, remove, what are, Windows 7