How to restore a backup in Book Tracker

Backups let you fully restore your Book Tracker library if you’ve lost data, changed device, or need to undo mistakes.

Unlike CSV exports, backups contain your entire database — including reading statuses, progress, notes, quotes, positions, tags, series, and purchases.

Before you restore

  • Restoring a backup replaces your current library with the contents of the backup.
  • If you use iCloud sync, restoring on one device will sync the restored library to your other devices.
  • To avoid losing data, create a manual backup of your current library before restoring, in case you want to go back.

How to restore on iPhone or iPad

  1. Open Book Tracker.
  2. Go to Settings → Backup & Restore.
  3. You’ll see a list of available backups (automatic daily backups for the last 7 days + any manual backups).
  4. Tap the backup you want to restore.
  5. Select Restore and confirm.
  6. Wait for the app to reload your library.

How to restore on Mac

  1. Open Book Tracker.
  2. In the menu bar, select Book Tracker → Preferences.
  3. Go to Backup & Restore.
  4. Select the backup you want to restore.
  5. Click Restore and confirm.
  6. Your library will be replaced with the backup contents.

Using exported backups

If you previously exported a backup file (e.g., saved to Files, iCloud Drive, or AirDrop):

  1. On your new device, open Book Tracker.
  2. Go to Settings→ Backup & Restore.
  3. Tap Select File.
  4. Choose the exported backup file.
  5. Confirm to restore it.

After restoring

  • Reopen your library to confirm that your books, reading states, and other details are back.
  • If you use iCloud sync, wait a few minutes: the restored data will be uploaded and appear on your other devices.
  • If some devices don’t update, see the tutorial on iCloud sync troubleshooting.

Best practices

  • Always create a new backup before restoring, in case you need to roll back.
  • If you’re moving to a new device, export a backup first, then import it on the new device.
  • Remember: automatic backups cover only the last 7 days — for long-term security, create manual and exported backups regularly.

✅ Restoring a backup in Book Tracker is simple and safe, ensuring your entire library can always be recovered when needed.