Accessing the Hidden User Library (macOS)

This article explains how to access the User Library folder which is hidden by default.

When troubleshooting common issues with software on macOS systems, it may be required to locate certain folders and files found within subfolders of this hidden location. 

  1. Click 'Go' in the Finder menu bar, and hold down the 'Option' (Alt) key.
  2. The Library entry now appears in the Finder > Go menu.
    Go_Menu_Finder_User_Library_Underlined_Kybd_copy.png
  3. Clicking Library directly opens the hidden User Library folder in a new Finder window.
    (If the Library entry does not appear when you hold down the Option / Alt key, please use the alternative method at the end of the article.)

It is now possible to navigate the hidden *Library folder, where user-level NI files are installed:

  • Macintosh HD > Users > "User Name" > *Library > Application Support > Native Instruments
  • Macintosh HD > Users > "User Name" > *Library > Preferences

Hidden_Library_Contents_Underlined.png

Alternative Method

  1. In the Finder menu, click Go > Go to folder.
    GoToFolder.png
  2. Copy the following entire path (including the ~) and paste it into the box that appears:
    ~/Library
  3. Hit the Enter key.

It is now possible to navigate the hidden *Library folder, where user-level NI files are installed:

  • Macintosh HD > Users > "User Name" > *Library > Application Support > Native Instruments
  • Macintosh HD > Users > "User Name" > *Library > Preferences