FIX: Can’t Open Photo Library Using This Version of iPhoto
Opening an iPhoto library on newer macOS can instantly show the message: “The library version for ‘iPhoto Library’ is not supported. It can be opened with macOS Monterey or earlier.” This error means the iPhoto library format does not work with the current Photos app system.
The main cause is an older iPhoto library made before the switch to Photos, with other causes including a failed transfer or mismatched library formats.
1. Rebuild your photo library from automatic backup.
Quit iPhoto if it’s open. Hold down both the Command and Option/Alt keys, and while holding them, launch iPhoto. When the dialog appears, choose to rebuild your iPhoto library. First select “Repair the iPhoto Library Database,” let it finish, then open the repair dialog again the same way and choose “Rebuild iPhoto library database from automatic backup.” Test iPhoto afterward. If it still doesn’t open your library, proceed to Method 2.
2. Download iPhoto Library Manager and use its rebuild feature
iPhoto Library Manager is a handy Mac app that can rebuild an iPhoto library using the information stored in your library files. To use it:
- Go here and download iPhoto Library Manager.
- Open the app, select your problem library, and use its Rebuild function.
The Rebuild feature creates a brand‑new iPhoto library using the data in the library’s XML file. When the rebuild finishes, you may not recover items like slideshows, books, or calendars, but your events/albums and keywords should return.
This method, unlike the one above, is completely non‑destructive and non‑intrusive. It builds a new library from your existing library files and leaves your original iPhoto library untouched. If something isn’t right or you prefer the old setup, you can simply switch back to your original library.
