Using LGPL library in a commercial Java applicatio

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I have a commercial Java application which I will be distributing.

I want to use an LGPL'd java library. I wont be modifying the library. Does the LGPL license of that library have any impact on my application's license?

Answer 1

As far as I understand the LGPL, no, you can distribute it however you like. You will only be linking to the library, not creating a derivative work, and the LGPL doesn't restrict linking.

Answer 2

My guess is that as long as your linking is dynamic (i.e. dynamic loading of the .dll/.so/.a/.class/whatever file at runtime), you're OK. If you statically compile your code to include the library, you're at risk of violating the license, depending on how your code is structured.

If it's Java, however, you can not link statically - it's an impossibility of the platform.

Answer 3

Yes, it does to a certain degree. You are e.g required to allow people to upgrade the LGPL'd library without your help. I suggest reading through the whole license yourself, as you're legally obligated to adhere to it's clauses. Know what you oblige yourself to, don't just take other people's words for it :)

Answer 4

There is no impact on your application. LGPL license allows inclusion in commercial application as long as the terms of the license are fulfilled (LGPL license text in the distribution, indication of the use of the library, etc).