diff --git a/PUBLIC_SOURCE_MANIFEST.json b/PUBLIC_SOURCE_MANIFEST.json
index 6e4d870..d7bc186 100644
--- a/PUBLIC_SOURCE_MANIFEST.json
+++ b/PUBLIC_SOURCE_MANIFEST.json
@@ -1,7 +1,7 @@
 {
   "schemaVersion": 1,
-  "sourceRevision": "781315f3f71031995159287f425aeac47a77515b",
-  "generatedAt": "2026-09-30T00:23:00.486Z",
+  "sourceRevision": "e15d06f97e5204dd853ef3d25e326d8c6d49936f",
+  "generatedAt": "2026-10-01T16:40:58.243Z",
   "files": [
     {
       "path": ".dockerignore",
@@ -80,8 +80,8 @@
     },
     {
       "path": "README.md",
-      "bytes": 6113,
-      "sha256": "3829463241e65c2aa5345017e04ca85ecb03dd910e3d507972926f16ff6db05a"
+      "bytes": 6759,
+      "sha256": "bdd31f338ac0e90f62eb71f45b4abb473e78685a055e54de8c874e4d5f566dd2"
     },
     {
       "path": "SECURITY.md",
diff --git a/README.md b/README.md
index 0294d96..53fbab9 100644
--- a/README.md
+++ b/README.md
@@ -89,6 +89,12 @@ flowchart LR
 
 The cataloging pipeline only reads mounted source libraries. PostgreSQL stores identities, provenance, collections and review state; cache, exports and optional player data use separate writable locations. This separation lets you re-scan or restore the catalog without changing original game files.
 
+## When an archive appears empty
+
+Check the container's read-only library mounts and file permissions, then inspect scan progress and the reported format confidence. A mounted directory can be accessible without containing a recognized game format. Review uncertain candidates before correcting metadata or resolving duplicate groups.
+
+Preserve manual decisions and application state during upgrades. Keep a backup of the catalog in addition to the original archive: rescanning source files does not recreate your notes, collections and review decisions. Exporting a launcher catalog does not grant rights to redistribute its games or binaries.
+
 ## Development
 
 The backend targets .NET 10, the UI uses React 19 and Vite, and controller helpers use Python's standard