We created a bunch of DLLs which we would like to share between different solutions on our computers. We thought that gacutil.exe all alone is enough, probably not.
When we tried to find the file under the .NET tab - we couldn't find it, but the it was registered to the GAC.

I will start by showing some ladybugs:
http://connect.microsoft.com/VisualStudio/feedback/ViewFeedback.aspx?FeedbackID=105471
http://connect.microsoft.com/VisualStudio/feedback/ViewFeedback.aspx?FeedbackID=105884
http://connect.microsoft.com/VisualStudio/feedback/ViewFeedback.aspx?FeedbackID=111950

Those ladybugs help me get better understanding of this issue.

I searched a little bit and found out two ways to resolve this problem:

• The first solution is to put a copy of your DLLs in the VS IDE Directory (C:\WINDOWS\Microsoft.NET\Framework\v2.0.50727).
• The second solution is to create a sub key under: [HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\.NET\AssemblyFolders] and insert the real directory path to its value.

For me I prefer the second idea, this look more organized, and you can get better management of your DLLs.

After you will make one of those you could simply find the Assembly in your "add reference -> .NET tab.".