How to Show Library Folder on Mac

Are you a Mac user who wants to access the Library folder but can’t seem to find it? Don’t worry, you’re not alone!

By default, Apple hides the Library folder in macOS to prevent users from accidentally deleting or modifying important system files. However, if you need to access the Library folder for troubleshooting or other purposes, there’s a simple way to show it. In this tutorial, we’ll guide you through the steps to show the Library folder on your Mac.

Method 1: Using Keyboard Shortcuts

If you prefer using keyboard shortcuts, this method is for you. Follow these steps:

1. Step 1: Open Finder by clicking on its icon in the Dock or pressing Command + Space and typing “Finder”.
2. Step 2: With Finder active, press and hold down the Option key on your keyboard.
3. Step 3: While holding down the Option key, click on the “Go” menu in the top menu bar.
4. Step 4: In the dropdown menu that appears, you should now see a new option called “Library”. Click on it.

Congratulations! You’ve successfully shown the Library folder using keyboard shortcuts. You can now access and modify its contents as needed.

Method 2: Using Terminal

If you’re comfortable with using Terminal commands, this method might be more appealing to you. Here’s how to do it:

1. Step 1: Open Terminal by going to Applications -> Utilities -> Terminal or searching for it using Spotlight (Command + Space).
2. Step 2: In the Terminal window, type or copy and paste the following command:

chflags nohidden ~/Library/

Press Enter to execute the command.

3. Step 3: After executing the command, close Terminal.
4. Step 4: Open a new Finder window and click on “Go” in the top menu bar.
5. Step 5: In the dropdown menu, you should now see “Library” as an option.

You’ve successfully used Terminal to show the Library folder on your Mac. Now you can easily access its contents whenever you need to.

Note: Hiding the Library Folder Again

If you want to hide the Library folder again after showing it, follow these steps:

1. Method 1 (Keyboard Shortcuts):

• If Finder is active, press and hold down the Option key again.
• In the top menu bar, click on “Go”. The “Library” option should no longer be visible.

2. Method 2 (Terminal):

• Open Terminal and type or copy and paste this command:

chflags hidden ~/Library/

Press Enter to execute the command. The Library folder will be hidden again.

That’s it! You now know two different methods to show the Library folder on your Mac.

Whether you prefer using keyboard shortcuts or Terminal commands, you can easily access and modify the contents of the Library folder whenever necessary. Just remember to be cautious when making changes to system files, as it can potentially harm your macOS installation if done incorrectly.