How SharePoint Library Names Work During Migration
Understanding the difference between Original Library Name and Library Title is essential for successful SharePoint migrations.
Overview
SharePoint document libraries have two distinct naming attributes that can cause confusion during migration: the permanent Original Library Name and the changeable Library Title. Understanding these differences is crucial for preventing configuration errors.
Library Naming Structure
Permanent - Cannot be changed
Key Concepts
Original Library Name
- Set when library is created
- Cannot be changed after creation
- Visible in the library URL
- Used by Microsoft Graph API
Library Title
- Display name users see in SharePoint
- Can be renamed at any time
- Found in Site contents > Settings
- May differ from Original Name
Common Confusion
When users rename a Library Title, the URL (containing the Original Library Name) remains unchanged. This can cause confusion during migration if the Title and Original Name don't match.
Locating the Web Address
To find the library's Original Name via its web address:
- 1 Navigate to the Library
Open the document library in SharePoint
- 2 Check the Browser URL
The Original Library Name appears in the URL path
- 3 Alternative: Library Settings
Go to Library Settings > look for "Web Address" field
Migration Process
Cloudiway handles library naming through a systematic process:
Identification Phase
The migration tool searches for the Library Title first, then falls back to the web address if needed to locate the correct library.
Data Processing
Once identified, the tool retrieves the library's List ID, enabling the Microsoft Graph API to target it accurately.
Import Job Submission
When submitting jobs to Microsoft, both the List ID and Original Library Name are declared to ensure proper mapping.
Microsoft's Restoration
During migration, Microsoft restores the Original Library Name to maintain consistency with the library's web address.
Automatic Handling
Cloudiway automatically handles the complexity of library naming. You typically only need to specify the Library Title as displayed in SharePoint.
Best Practices
Document Both Names
Before migration, document both the Library Title and Original Library Name (from URL) for each library.
Verify Library Mapping
Double-check that your migration mapping points to the correct library, especially if titles have been renamed.
Plan for URL Consistency
Consider how the Original Library Name in URLs will affect users post-migration, especially for bookmarks and links.