Files block
The Files block is a Grid block that displays a single cloud file or the contents of a public folder from Google Drive or Microsoft OneDrive.
This article covers the Grid block. For sharing rules and source setup, see Google Drive files and OneDrive and Office 365 files. For the combined Files & Folders terrace on a terrace page, see Files & Folders terrace.
Adding a Files block
- Click the + (Add content) button in the admin menu.
- Click Files.
- Paste a Url or use File/Folder Picker, set Title and Sort by, then click Add Block.
The editor heading is Add content, with the chip a Files Block. The URL field title is File or Folder URL. Default title placeholder: Shared files.
Editing
Click the pencil on the block (Click to edit). Save Changes keeps the edits. Cancel discards them. Delete removes the block.
| Field | Behavior |
|---|---|
| Url | File or folder address, or use File/Folder Picker |
| Title | Required. Default Shared Files |
| Sort by | Filename (A-Z), Filename (Z-A), Last Modified Date (Newest-Oldest), or Last Modified Date (Oldest-Newest) |
| Force refresh now. | Edit mode only. Pulls the source again after you save |
The editor notes that the source also refreshes on its own. Save the block to force a refresh.
Visitor behavior
- A single file opens in the block preview when the format supports it, with View {title} to open the file.
- A folder lists its files and folders. Nested folders on a Grid Files block are flattened into one list. Click-into-folder browsing is on the Files & Folders terrace when that feature is enabled for the district. See Google Drive files.
- Open Folder In New Window opens the folder at the provider.
On phones, Expand appears when the list does not fit the block height.
Constraints
- One source per Files block. To show two folders, add two blocks or use the Files & Folders terrace.
- The file or folder must be shared so visitors can view it. See Google Drive files.
FAQ
- "Why do visitors see file not found?" The Drive or OneDrive item is not shared for viewing with the link. Set general access so anyone with the link can view. See Google Drive files.
- "Why is my folder flattened?" On a Grid Files block, nested folders are listed as one flat list. Use the Files & Folders terrace for in-site folder navigation when your district has that feature.
- "How do I refresh the list now?" Open the block editor, click Force refresh now., then Save Changes.
Last updated: July 2026.