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Bulk-import multiple books from .slima backups
Last updated May 15, 2026 · 4 min read
Switching accounts, moving devices, restoring previously exported backups — bulk-restore multiple books with Restore Backup. The entry is the 4th option in the "+ Create New Work" dialog, not a separate ⋯ menu on the shelf.

vs. "Import Existing Content"
The + Create New Work modal has two import-related options:
| Import Existing Content | Restore Backup | |
|---|---|---|
| Formats | Word / Markdown / txt / PDF / EPUB | .slima backup files |
| What's restored | Text only, as new files (starts fresh) | Files/folders, notes, book settings, and embedded images |
| How many books | One book at a time | One .slima can hold multiple books, all restored at once |
| For | Migrating from another tool | You previously exported a Slima backup |
How to open Restore Backup
Shelf top → "+ Create New Work" → pick "Restore Backup" (the 4th option).
Flow
1 · Pick a file
Drag in or click to select one .slima backup file. Only a single file is accepted; the "bulk" part comes from that one .slima containing multiple books, which all restore together — not from dragging multiple files or a folder.
2 · Preview
Slima lists each book inside the .slima:
- Title (auto-renamed if it collides with an existing book)
- File count
- Word count
If a title collides with an existing book, Slima adds a "Renamed" tag.
3 · Pick which to import
All checked by default — uncheck the ones you don't want.
4 · Confirm
On import, Slima:
- Creates each book as a new book (new internal ID)
- Restores files and folders (chapters + reference), notes, book settings, and any embedded images
Large batches may take 10–30 seconds.
When complete, all books land in "My Works."
When to use it
- Moving devices and need everything back
- You previously exported backups, now restoring
- Recovering books you've permanently-deleted — they can still be restored from
.slima(see Book lifecycle)
Producing .slima backups
In the Archive tab, a book's ⋯ menu has Export as .slima (full backup, can be re-imported). Or use the top Export button, or full-book Export manuscript. (Note: the ⋯ menu's "Copy" makes a duplicate, not a backup file.)
Quota notes
- Imported books count toward your subscription "books in use" quota
- If you exceed quota, some books may land in Archive state (which doesn't count) — see your current plan for specifics