Without any doubt, unknown directories, files, folders, and other system elements can seem rather suspicious and confusing. This can become a real issue, especially for users who are new to macOS, who have no idea how everything works yet. When beginners come across unknown files, they most often start freaking out and wondering whether these elements can do any harm to their computers. Luckily, in most cases, even those folders and files that you have never seen before are absolutely harmless, so there is nothing to worry about. However, without a doubt, it is a good idea to figure out what they are meant for, as this knowledge will give you a better understanding of the system functionality.
In this article, we are going to discuss one of such hidden folders that confuse many users – Library. Our article will help you understand the idea behind this folder, what kinds of files are stored in it, and we will give you some clear tips on how to show Library folder Mac.
Definition
If you come across /System/Library or /Library folders while discovering your Macs functionality, you might be wondering what they are meant for. In simple words, these system folders are created to store vital support files, settings, and resources needed for the proper functionality of the system and all its elements.
As a rule, there are from three to four of such folder in every user’s Mac. Each stores specific items. For example, user library is aimed to keep user’s private settings, while network library folder stores all settings shared within a particular network domain. In addition, there are system and local libraries. The first one stores all system-related resources and settings, while the local folder is responsible for the settings of a particular computer.
To wrap things up, we would like to highlight that folders named Library are essential elements of the system and they bring no harm to your computer. Also, it is worth mentioning that applying any changes to these folders and their contents can lead to different unpleasant consequences. Thus, we do not recommend adding or removing any files unless you know exactly what you are doing.
Simple Ways To Show Library
Just like many system sensitive folders across different operating systems, these folders are normally hidden by default. There are quite many reasons for that. Most importantly, as was mentioned earlier, sending important files to trash or changing anything else inside these folders can interrupt the proper functioning of your Mac. However, in some cases, users may need to start digging deeper. For this case, we have prepared a simple guide that will help you regain access to the Library folder.
Way 1: Unlock Folders For Temporary Access
In order to unhide these folders temporarily, you need to launch the Finder, click Go > Go to Folder, and type ~/Library in the new window. This method will take you right to the needed folder.
Way 2: Unlock Folders For Permanent Access
If you are a more experienced user, you may want to have permanent access to the Library folder. In this case, you need to make a few simple steps. Just like in the method described above, first, you will need to launch the Finder. Then you should pick the menu called Go and follow to the Utilities tab. Next, you will need to open the Terminal and run the following command:
chflags nohidden ~/Library/
Once you enter this command, press Enter and the changes will be applied. This method will keep this folder unhidden until you run a reverse command (chflags hidden ~/Library/).
We hope that all users will find our guide helpful. Don’t forget that there are many other handy tips at OSxtips!
