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Open Source Library

Open Source Library Definition

In computer science, a library refers to a collection of precompiled, reusable files, functions, scripts, routines, and other resources that can be referenced by computer programmers, often for software development. An open source library is any library with an open source license, which denotes software that is free to reuse, modify, and/or publish without permission.

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FAQs

What is an Open Source Library?

Open source library software in computer science provides an easier means for programmers to develop dynamic interfaces by storing readily accessible and frequently used routines and resources, such as classes, configuration data, documentation, help data, message templates, pre-written code and subroutines, type specifications, and values.

These precompiled modules are stored in object format and organized in such a way that they can be used by multiple, unconnected programs. An open source library uses a General Public License, which guarantees end users the freedom to legally run, study, share and modify the software.

Examples of Open Source Libraries

Some examples of free open source library software include open source JavaScript libraries, such as D3.js, jQuery, and Three.js; open source C libraries, such as Expat, GJS, and IUP; open source python libraries, such as TensorFlow, Pandas, and Matplotlib; apache open source libraries, such as Datasketches and Commons; and open source C++ libraries, such as KFR and Flac.

Benefits of Open Source Libraries

Libraries are very useful for computer programmers as they provide access to reusable, pre-written, frequently used codes, which drastically reduces the workload as programmers can reference this code instead of writing everything from scratch every time. 

The benefits of open source software include

  • Community: Open source solutions are driven by a large, diverse, and talented community with a common goal of working together to quickly develop improvements and troubleshoot issues.
  • Cost: Open source libraries and other open source solutions decrease the overall cost of deploying a solution by eliminating any licensing fees.
  • Reliability: With a diverse and large group of humans reviewing open source libraries and software, open source output is thoroughly tested and tends to be highly robust and reliable.
  • Security: Having a large number of participants involved in the development of open source solutions increases the chances of discovering and resolving security vulnerabilities.
  • Transparency: Full visibility into the code base provides transparency, enabling users to develop an expectation as to what they will be working with. 

Does HEAVY.AI Offer Open Source Library Solutions?

HEAVY.AIDB is an open-source, in-memory, column store, SQL-based, relational database, which massively accelerates innovation by building a global community of users and developers. HEAVY.AIDb is licensed under the Apache License, Version 2.0, and works in conjunction with open source JavaScript libraries, Python, Apache Thrift, and JDBC drivers. HEAVY.AI Render can access open source data visualization libraries like Highcharts, D3, React, and MapBox.