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Adding files to your library without copying them to your Music folder

When you import a song from a CD, a copy of the song is placed in your iTunes Music folder (in [Your Home Folder]/Music/iTunes), so that all your imported music files are in the same location on your computer.

When you add an item to your iTunes library by dragging it to the iTunes window (or choosing File > Add to Library), a copy is also placed in the iTunes Music folder. You can change this setting so that the item appears in iTunes without being copied to the Music folder. For example, you might want to save video files in a location other than your hard disk.

To add files to your library without copying them to your Music folder:

  1. Choose iTunes > Preferences, click Advanced, and then click General.
  2. Deselect "Copy files to iTunes Music folder when adding to library."

The next time you drag a file to your library or choose File > Add to Library, the item will appear in iTunes, but the actual file will not be copied or moved. 

Tip: When dragging files to the iTunes window, you can temporarily reverse the checkbox setting by holding down the Option key while you drag.

Related Topics

Copying all your iTunes files to one location

Finding where your iTunes files are stored

Changing where your iTunes files are stored

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