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Steam failed to add a new library: Try out this guide

5 min. read

Updated onOctober 4, 2023

updated onOctober 4, 2023

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Key notes

It is a great gaming service, but some users reported that Steam failed to add a new library. Keep in mind that this error can be problematic and can prevent you from playing your favorite games.

However, there’s a way to fix this problem, and today we’re going to show you how. It is quite simple, so you don’t have to be an expert to perform the process.

Before discovering the best solution to solve today’s problem, let’s see why it can appear.

What is the Steam game library?

If you don’t already know, the Steam game library is Steam’s software management interface. It is provided to users upon installation of Steam, hosting all software owned by you, as well as games included via Family Sharing.

The Steam manufacturers updated this feature. The new Steam library makes it quick and easy to explore, sort, hide and feature your games.

You can also drag and drop your games into collections to reorganize your library.

Now, let’s see what you can do if Steam failed to add a new library.

What can I do if Steam failed to add a new library?

1. Stop or pause any download or update

One of the most common causes that explain why Steam failed to add a new library si that you’re currently downloading an update for one or more of your games.

Because it seems like Steam downloads and updates might interfere with the process of adding a new library.

In this matter, we strongly recommend stopping or pausing any download or update that is currently running on the Steam client.

After that, try to add a new Steam library. If it doesn’t work, we have a couple more options you can use.

2. Restart your PC and network devices

If Steam failed to add a new library, it might probably be due to some random and temporary glitches related to your PC, Internet, or network devices.

It seems like some users managed to solve this error by simply restarting their computers and network devices. However, if it doesn’t work for you, make sure you keep on reading.

3. Add a library folder from Steam settings

After doing that, the problem should be resolved and everything will start working again.

4. Temporarily disable your antivirus software

If Steam failed to add a new library it is probably that a third-party antivirus is getting into conflict with the gaming app.

In case you’re not sure how to disable your specific software, contact your antivirus support center and ask them for help or switch to a different antivirus program.

5. Clear Steam Download Cache

What other Steam library errors should I be aware of?

In this article, we explored the best method to try if Steam failed to add a new libraryon your Windows 10 PC. Make sure to follow the steps presented in this article exactly to get the best result.

Feel free to let us know if this method helped you deal with the error Steam generates, by using the comment section below.

Steam failed to add a new library: Try out this guide#

What is the Steam game library?#

What can I do if Steam failed to add a new library?#

1. Stop or pause any download or update#

2. Restart your PC and network devices#

3. Add a library folder from Steam settings#

4. Temporarily disable your antivirus software#

5. Clear Steam Download Cache#

What other Steam library errors should I be aware of?#