FIX: Failed to add new Steam library folder

How to Fix the "Failed to add new Steam library folder" Error in Windows 11

When you install a game via Steam on the default Steam library or a new Steam library on another drive, you may get the “Failed to add new Steam Library folder” error, and the installation will fail. This article will show you how to fix this error.

Failed to add new Steam library folder

What Causes “Failed to add new Steam library folder”?

The Steam client can’t add a new library while something is happening to the existing game library, usually when Steam downloads a game or a game update. The crux of it is that downloading something while creating a new library somehow interferes with the process and causes it to fail.

Therefore, the solution to this problem is simple – you have to temporarily stop or allow the download to complete before creating a new Steam library.

If you get the “Failed to add new steam library folder must be writable” error, it indicates that the folder in which you want to create a new library folder is read-only. Choose another folder or remove the Read-only attribute from that folder in such a case.

If you get the “Failed to add new steam library folder must be empty” error, it indicates a Steam library already exists in the directory where you want to create a new library. Therefore, you must choose another directory or drive.

Video Guide on How to Fix the "Failed to add new Steam library folder" Error

Table of Contents:

Introduction
Pause Current Downloads and Add a New Steam Library
Video Guide on How to Fix the "Failed to add new Steam library folder" Error

Download Computer Malware Repair Tool

It is recommended to run a free scan with Combo Cleaner - a tool to detect viruses and malware on your device. You will need to purchase the full version to remove infections. Free trial available. Combo Cleaner is owned and operated by Rcs Lt, the parent company of PCRisk.com read more.