how to find the library folder on mac osx

Here is how you can temporarily view files in the Mac Library: So taking the “Apple recommended” approach means that Library will only appear as long as you keep the Finder window for the Library folder open. Plus, making the Library permanently visible could have the same impact. There is too much of a risk that something unexpected and fairly catastrophic could go wrong. If you ever want to undo this change, use Terminal to input this command: chflags hidden ~/Library - to hide the Library again.Īnother way to make Library visible, although not permanently visible, is to follow another set of instructions that Apple recommends.Īpple prefers people not to make regular use of Terminal.Now Library should be visible in Finder and should sit alongside other folders and files.This changes the flag visibility to on, thereby making Library a visible folder. Enter the following command in Terminal: chflags nohidden ~/Library.Launch Terminal, which you can find in /Applications/Utilities.To make this change permanent, follow these instructions: Finding Library via Terminal There are a couple of ways to make this visible, whether or not you want this to be permanent or only visible as needed. Before you do that, you need to access this hidden directory. It is often easier to go to the source of a problem and fix it directly than to troubleshoot an issue. The Library folder, also known as a directory, has long-since been a go-to location for Mac users when an application misbehaves. If you want, you can even show the Library folder in a Mac permanently so that you never need to wonder where it is and why you can’t access it. How to access the Mac Library folder?Īlthough this skill isn’t essential for everyone, some power users need to know how to find a Library on a Mac. In this article, we cover how you can gain access to your Library folder.

Not only that, but for those who've suffered any kind of malware, ransomware, adware, or other infection, gaining access to the Library is the most effective way of forever eradicating a serious problem that has infected your Mac. But for some, it’s useful - even essential - so not having access can cause a problem. Most of us don't need this level of access. But to help you do it all by yourself, we’ve gathered our best ideas and solutions below.įeatures described in this article refer to the MacPaw site version of CleanMyMac X.įor most people, not having access to the Library is not a problem. So here's a tip for you: Download CleanMyMac to quickly solve some of the issues mentioned in this article.

How to find the library folder on mac osx