What is the purpose of a software library?

The purpose of a software library is primarily to optimize productivity by providing prewritten code. Libraries contain collections of functions, classes, and methods that can be reused across multiple programs, allowing developers to leverage existing solutions instead of writing code from scratch. This not only speeds up the development process but also improves code reliability and consistency since the library is generally well-tested.

The use of libraries can significantly cut down on development time and effort, enabling developers to focus on unique features of their applications rather than on low-level code implementation. It streamlines coding practices and encourages best practices through the encapsulation of common tasks in a modular format, enhancing overall software development efficiency.