Windows 10: folders vs libraries - what's the difference?

Hi everyone,


I'm having trouble understanding the difference between folders and libraries in Windows, and understanding the advantages of using a library.


A library, to me, just sounds like a collection of shortcuts.


Why wouldn't you just create a folder with shortcuts in it? Isn't that functionally the same?


I only use one physical storage location my C drive and don't use USBs, don't connect to network drives, etc. - but if I did, couldn't I also just create a simple folder with shortcuts to the folders in those other physical locations?

For example, if I'm working on 3 projects, each of which has its own folder, why wouldn't I just pin each of those "pin to quick access" or "pin to start" or ?


TIA and have a great day!

:)

 

Map a network drive folder to my video library

To Include folders using Manage Library Tools, we suggest that you perform the steps below:

• In File Explorer, select or open a library (ex: Videos) you want to include a folder or drive to.
• Click on the Library Tools Manage tab, and click on the Manage library button in the ribbon.
• Click on the Add button
• Browse to and select a folder or drive that you want to include in this library, and click on the Include folder button.
• When finished, click/tap on OK.

Keep us updated with the result.

 

Picture User Folder vs Library Picture Folder / Add to User folder

Hi,



Form the issue description, I realize that you are trying to view your pictures in the default pictures library. To do so, you have to change the location of the folder that contains your pictures to the default pictures library folder.



To view your pictures in the default pictures library, I suggest you to follow the steps below.

• 
  Right-click on the default Picture folder
  and click on Properties.
  
• 
  Navigate to Location tab.
  
• 
  Click on Move…. and select the folder that contains your pictures and click on
  Apply and then click on Ok.
  

Hope the information helps. Kindly write back to us for further information on Windows. We will be happy to assist you.



Thank you.

 

What is the difference between 'This PC' and 'Libraries'?

In addition:

The folders in This PC are links to the folders in your account's "C:\Users\<user name>" profile folder.

Libraries gather folders that are stored in different locations so you can browse them in one place. You can include folders and drives to a library as you like.

• How to Include Folder to a Library in Windows 10
• How to Remove Included Folder from Library in Windows 10
• How to Set Default and Public Save Location of Library in Windows 10