How to manage components in a design library

Hi folks,

here's the question: What is the proper procedure to remove parts/assemblies that have been previously placed in a Design Library, and that have been used in assemblies already?

Why would I want to do this?

1) I once added a component to the design library at the time of design, thinking it was a great components and I would surely use it again, and it made sense to put it in the design library.

I completed the design(s) and realized later that this component was non-standard, and rather difficult to source. We have since decided to not use this component anymore, and we've replaced it with a new one.

I'd like to remove this model (ie. delete) from the Design Library, however, since it has already been used, I want to make sure that when I open these larger assemblies in the future, that this component still shows properly.

I essentially want to remove it fromt he design library just because it will no longer be used, but I want still want it to show in older machine design models.

2) I like to be organized, and I like to keep my design library clean. There must be a way to do a cleanup everynow and then to keep things tidy.

Thanks so much!

SolidworksAssemblies