Wrapper Library

Wrapper Library

In computer programming, a library is a collection of subroutines or classes used to develop software. Libraries expose interfaces which clients of the library use to execute library routines. Wrapper libraries (or library wrappers) consist of a thin layer of code which translates a library's existing interface into a compatible interface. This is done for several reasons:

• To refine a poorly designed or complicated interface.
• Allow code to work together which otherwise cannot (e.g. Incompatible data formats).
• Enable cross language and/or runtime interoperability.

Wrapper libraries are implemented using the Adapter, Façade, and to a lesser extent, Proxy design patterns.