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Question

Error when accessing libraries

  • May 20, 2026
  • 1 reply
  • 17 views
Andy Gladdis

When I try to use a library outside of the file that I’m in, I can see the contents of the library but if I try to use anything it shows an error.

 

E.g. I have a file with some colour tokens and components in that I’m using as library. I have another file which is using the library. When I try to use a colour from the library I see the list of  available token in the library, but when I select one I get an error message saying ‘An error occurred while retrieving the variable’.

 

If I try to add a component from the library, again I can see the component in the library but when I try to insert an instance I get the error message ‘Unable to load. Something went wrong. Try closing this window and reselecting the component.’

1 reply

djv
Figmate
  • djv
  • Community Support
  • May 21, 2026

Hi ​@Andy Gladdis, thanks for reaching out! 

I completely understand how this must be slowing down your workflow. The good news is that being able to see the library contents but not use them is a pretty telling symptom. Here are the most likely culprits, in order of probability:

1. Unpublished library changes

  • This is the most common cause. Open your source library file, publish any pending updates, then open your working file and accept the incoming updates.

2. Hidden or deleted variables

  • Check that the variable still exists in its collection and that "Hide from publishing" isn't checked in its settings.

3. Permissions/network

  • Less likely given you can browse the library, but worth confirming you have editor access and a stable connection.

The component insert error ('Unable to load') is likely the same root cause. But once the library is re-published and updates are accepted, both issues usually resolve together. Hope this helps, but please let me know if you continue to run into issues!

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