SharePoint Document Issues

How to Bulk-Delete or Create SharePoint Libraries with PowerShell

Natalie Taylor Oct 21, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user needs a method to manage multiple SharePoint document libraries by bulk-deleting or creating them using PowerShell scripts and CSV files.

How to Bulk-Delete or Create SharePoint Libraries with PowerShell

Product: SharePoint Online
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Managing a large number of SharePoint document libraries efficiently using automated scripts based on CSV data.
Observed behavior: Seeking the correct PowerShell scripts, best practices for bulk deletion, and expert resources to safely execute bulk library operations without data loss.

Before you start

Before running any bulk-deletion script, ensure you have verified your CSV file data and thoroughly tested the script against a small set of test libraries to prevent accidental data loss.

Solution 1Recommended

Use PnP PowerShell for Bulk Operations

PnP PowerShell provides efficient, simplified commands to read a CSV file and iterate through SharePoint library creation or deletion.

Using PnP PowerShell is often the most straightforward approach for bulk operations in SharePoint Online. You can pair it with a standard CSV file containing the target library names and the desired actions.

Prepare your CSV file

Create a CSV file with headers such as 'LibraryName' and 'Action'. List all the target document libraries exactly as they appear in your SharePoint site.

Connect to SharePoint

Open your PowerShell console and use the command Connect-PnPOnline -Url <YourSiteUrl> -Interactive to securely authenticate into your SharePoint environment.

Import the CSV and loop through libraries

Use the Import-Csv cmdlet to read your file. Use a foreach loop to iterate through each row, executing either Remove-PnPList for deletion or New-PnPList for creation based on your criteria.

Execute a test run

Before running the script on your production environment, point the script to a developer or test site to verify that the logic correctly targets only the intended libraries.

Caution with Bulk Deletion: Deleted document libraries bypass the standard recycle bin in some script executions. Ensure you have adequate backups before running destructive commands.

Solution 2

Consult Microsoft Q&A for Custom Scripts

For complex criteria or troubleshooting specific script errors, reaching out to the SharePoint Development community provides tailored guidance.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Switch to WPS Office for Streamlined Document Management

While SharePoint and PowerShell handle complex server-side setups, WPS Office provides a lightweight, highly compatible, and free alternative for everyday document creation and team collaboration.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint formats (.docx, .xlsx, .pptx).Lightweight installation with a familiar, easy-to-use tabbed interface.Built-in cloud syncing for simple, hassle-free document sharing without complex scripts.Free alternative to expensive Microsoft Office enterprise subscriptions.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

What is PnP PowerShell in SharePoint?

PnP PowerShell is a cross-platform PowerShell module that provides over 600 specific commands for managing SharePoint Online, Microsoft Teams, and other Microsoft 365 services easily.

How can I prevent accidental deletion when running a bulk-delete script?

Always test your script on a non-production test site first, utilize the '-WhatIf' parameter if available to preview changes without applying them, and double-check your CSV file headers and data.

Does WPS Office integrate with SharePoint files?

Yes, WPS Office can open and edit standard Office documents downloaded from SharePoint. You can also map your SharePoint document libraries as local network drives to seamlessly open and save files directly using WPS Office.

Document & File Issues