Open source libraries are software whose source code can be freely studied, distributed, and modified. These are different programs for users, libraries, components used by developers who create their projects. Such software is in the public domain or has a free license such as the BSD License. Sometimes such solutions are used to replace expensive products. Components with open source code can be elements of other infosystems and applications.
Such libraries are handled by altruists, they edit the code, add new functions, and share their experience. The process of secure development allows to find possible vulnerabilities in time, to minimize the number of false positives.
Such libraries appeared when the first computers and software were being developed. Then there were companies that started to make money on software, and the use of source code together by specialists was not so common. However, a new wave of popularity of open source libraries followed in the 1980s. In 1991 the Linux kernel was developed, and in 1998 E. Raymond initiated open source.
Everyone working on open source software contributes to the development of this system. The code can be distributed almost without restriction, the main thing is to put references to those who have worked on it before you. Creating such software allows you to implement projects without spending money on it.
Now more than 92% of applications are created using open source libraries, and most companies are not against using open source solutions. They allow to save time, money, control data, not to depend on the service provider, to localize the product on your own, and to modify and customize the software specifically for your needs. Such libraries are popular in technology, communications, transportation, medicine and so on.
Thus, the open source library is a popular and modern tool for creating quality software.