Then I don't understand where did you get the Normal file from in the first place when the user Library was invisible. By Spotlight search?

The good news is that you sorted this out and no tweaks are necessary!

Alex
3.1 GHz 13" MacBook Pro 2015, 8 GB RAM, OS 10.11.2, Office 2011, TimeWarner Cable
2.8 GHz Xeon Mac Pro 2010, 16 GB RAM, OS 10.11.2, Office 2011, LAN