I’m curious why the directory for the application’s source code is named “lib” and not, say, “src” or “app.” Does anyone know the history behind that? It’s not a problem or anything, and I’m sure there’s some reasoning behind it. I just find it a bit odd, since “src” or “app” seems to be the establi…

It’s not src because src is used by erlang and mix does support erlang source files if you happen to have ones in that folder.

And :app also has a meaning. In the end it does not really matter as far as I am concerned.

mix compile.elixir — Mix v1.20.2 You’re going to have to dig though Mix’ history if nobody brings a first person account on how that pattern had been established. Mix is the build and project management tool for Elixir. As others mentioned, there is also Erlan…

Probably copied from Ruby The default value is “lib” require_paths=(val) - Specification Reference - RubyGems Guides The Specification class contains the information for a gem. Typically defined in a .gemspec file or a Rakefile, and looks like this: | Tutorials, guides, FAQs for Rub…

[image] BartOtten: In the end it does not really matter as far as I am concerned. Yeah, it makes no practical difference. It was just a curiosity.

Why is the directory for the application source code named "lib"?

Questions & Help Questions

adamu October 30, 2025, 10:14pm 5

Probably copied from Ruby

The default value is “lib”