.LIB File Extension

A LIB file contains a library of information used by a specific program. It may store a variety of information, which may include functions and constants referenced by a program or actual objects, such as text clippings, images, or other media. LIB files are typically referenced by applications and should not be opened manually.

Windows dynamic libraries typically have a .DLL file extension. Macintosh dynamic libraries often have a .DYLIB extension.

A LIB file is a MakeMusic Finale library file. It contains a collection of musical elements, such as expression markings and chord symbol suffixes. Saving these elements in a LIB file allows composers to import and reuse them across multiple scores.

Composers use MakeMusic Finale to write, edit, play back, and share musical scores. As part of creating scores, composers can adjust certain score settings and elements. For example, a composer can specify custom fonts for the score's title, lyrics, and other text, and they can edit how chord suffixes, clefs, fretboards, key signatures, and other elements appear.

If a composer knows they'll want to use a set of custom settings and elements across multiple scores, they can save them as a Finale library file. To create a LIB file from their current score, composers select File → Save Library... from Finale's menu bar. Then, they can specify exactly which settings and elements should be saved in the LIB file, before saving it.

You can open a LIB file with MakeMusic Finale (Windows, Mac). To do so, select File → Load Library... while editing a score. Finale will then apply the settings and elements your LIB file contains to your score.