How Library Names Work Within a SharePoint Site

This article provides a detailed explanation of the Target Library Name parameter, outlining its role and behavior during the migration process to a SharePoint site.

Key Concepts

1. Original Library Name vs. Library Title

  • Original Library Name is set when the library is created.

  • It never changes and is visible in the Web Address (URL) of the library.

  • Example:
    If the Web Address is:
    https://yourtenant.sharepoint.com/sites/SiteName/LibraryName/Forms/
    AllItems.aspx

    Then, the Original Library Name is: LibraryName

  • Library Title (or “Name” in SharePoint UI) is the display name of the library.

    • It can be renamed by users.

    • Shown in Site contents > Settings as Name.

    • Example: LibraryRename

      ⚠️ Note: This can cause confusion, as the Library Title is what users see, but the Original Library Name is what defines the library’s actual path.

2. Where to Find the Web Address

  • If the library is visible in the site’s navigation, you can click directly to it.

  • Otherwise, go to:

    • Library settings > Web Address


Usage in Migration

Initialization Phase

  • The migration tool first looks for the Library Title (Library Rename).

  • If not found, it falls back to using the Web Address, which points to the Original Library Name (LibraryName).

Library Identification

  • Once the correct library is located, the tool retrieves its List ID.

  • This ID allows the Microsoft Graph API to target the correct library for migration actions.

Import Job Submission

  • When an import job is submitted to Microsoft:

    • Both the List ID and the Original Library Name are declared.

    • The Original Library Name is used for both the Web Address and the declared Library Title.

Microsoft Processing Behavior

  • During file and folder import:

    • Microsoft will restore the original Library Name of the declared library.

    • This ensures consistency with the Web Address and original naming.

Summary

The target SharePoint Library Name plays a crucial role in accurately identifying and interacting with SharePoint libraries during migration. Understanding the distinction between the Original Library Name (URL-based, permanent) and the Library Title (user-facing, changeable) is key to avoiding misconfigurations and ensuring smooth migrations.

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