What is a library in programming?

In programming, a library refers to a collection of pre-written code that can be reused across various applications or projects. This code is typically organized to provide specific functions or functionalities that developers can easily integrate into their own programs. Libraries help streamline the development process by allowing programmers to avoid rewriting common functions, thereby increasing efficiency and reducing errors.

The use of libraries promotes the principles of modular design and code reuse, making it easier to manage complex systems by breaking them down into smaller, manageable components. Libraries can cover a wide range of functionalities, such as mathematical operations, data manipulation, networking, and more, depending on the programming language and its ecosystem.

This concept is crucial in various programming paradigms since it aids in maintaining a clean and organized codebase while allowing developers to leverage existing code solutions.