# OpenGL User Interface Library
**Wikidata**: [Q1041107](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1041107)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/OpenGL_User_Interface_Library)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/opengl-user-interface-library

## Summary
OpenGL User Interface Library (GLUI) is a free software library for creating graphical user interfaces (GUIs) in applications using OpenGL. Released under the GNU Lesser General Public License, it allows developers to build interactive controls and widgets within OpenGL-based applications. The library was developed to simplify the integration of user interfaces with OpenGL rendering, making it easier to create visually rich applications with interactive elements.

## Key Facts
- **License**: Distributed under the GNU Lesser General Public License, allowing integration with proprietary software.
- **Version**: The latest stable version is 2.36, released on November 4, 2007.
- **Language**: Written in C++.
- **Website**: Official site is hosted at [http://glui.sourceforge.net/](http://glui.sourceforge.net/).
- **Aliases**: Also known as GLUI.
- **Package Management**: Available as an AUR package (`glui`), FreeBSD port (`devel/glui`), and Homebrew formula (`glui`).
- **Copyright Status**: The software is copyrighted.
- **SourceForge Project**: Hosted on the SourceForge project `glui`.
- **Wikipedia Availability**: Available in multiple languages including English, Spanish, French, and Russian.
- **Pro Linux Database ID**: Listed under ID 9281 in the Pro Linux database.
- **Repology Project Name**: Tracked as `glui` in Repology.

## FAQs
**What is the purpose of OpenGL User Interface Library?**
OpenGL User Interface Library (GLUI) is designed to provide a simple and efficient way to create graphical user interfaces (GUIs) for applications that use OpenGL for rendering. It allows developers to integrate interactive controls and widgets directly into OpenGL-based applications, enhancing the user experience with visually rich interfaces.

**Is OpenGL User Interface Library free to use?**
Yes, OpenGL User Interface Library is free software, distributed under the GNU Lesser General Public License (LGPL). This license permits users to freely run, study, modify, and distribute the software, including in proprietary applications.

**What programming language is OpenGL User Interface Library written in?**
The library is written in C++, which provides the necessary performance and flexibility for integrating with OpenGL-based applications.

**How can I install OpenGL User Interface Library?**
The library can be installed via package managers such as AUR (`glui`), FreeBSD ports (`devel/glui`), or Homebrew (`glui`). It is also available for download from its official SourceForge project page.

**What is the latest version of OpenGL User Interface Library?**
The latest stable version is 2.36, released on November 4, 2007. Users should check the official website for updates and compatibility information.

## Why It Matters
OpenGL User Interface Library (GLUI) plays a crucial role in the development of OpenGL-based applications by providing a straightforward solution for integrating graphical user interfaces. Its compatibility with the GNU Lesser General Public License ensures that developers can use it in both open-source and proprietary projects, making it a versatile tool for creating interactive and visually appealing applications. By simplifying the process of adding GUI elements to OpenGL applications, GLUI helps developers focus on the core functionality of their projects while still delivering a polished user experience.

## Notable For
- **Free Software**: GLUI is distributed as free software, allowing it to be used in a wide range of projects, from open-source to proprietary.
- **OpenGL Integration**: It is specifically designed to work seamlessly with OpenGL, making it a valuable tool for developers working in 3D graphics and visualization.
- **Cross-Platform Compatibility**: Available through multiple package managers and distribution channels, ensuring broad compatibility across different operating systems and development environments.
- **Historical Significance**: As one of the earliest libraries to provide GUI support for OpenGL applications, GLUI has influenced the development of similar tools in the graphics and visualization field.

## Body
### Overview
OpenGL User Interface Library (GLUI) is a free software library designed to facilitate the creation of graphical user interfaces (GUIs) for applications that use OpenGL for rendering. Released under the GNU Lesser General Public License (LGPL), it allows developers to integrate interactive controls and widgets into OpenGL-based applications, making it easier to create visually rich and interactive software.

### Development and Release
The library was developed in C++ and has been maintained as an open-source project. The latest stable version, 2.36, was released on November 4, 2007. It is available for download from its official website and through various package management systems, including AUR, FreeBSD ports, and Homebrew.

### Licensing and Distribution
GLUI is distributed under the GNU Lesser General Public License, which permits users to freely run, study, modify, and distribute the software. This license is particularly beneficial for developers who need to integrate GLUI into proprietary applications, as it allows for such use without requiring the entire application to be open-sourced.

### Installation and Availability
The library can be installed via package managers such as AUR (`glui`), FreeBSD ports (`devel/glui`), and Homebrew (`glui`). It is also available for direct download from its SourceForge project page, ensuring accessibility across different platforms and development environments.

### Wikipedia and Documentation
GLUI is documented on Wikipedia in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, French, and Russian. This multilingual support helps developers from diverse linguistic backgrounds access the information they need to use the library effectively.

### Pro Linux Database and Repology
The library is listed under ID 9281 in the Pro Linux database and is tracked as `glui` in Repology, which provides additional information on its availability and compatibility across different Linux distributions.

### Image and Visual Representation
An image of GLUI is available on Wikimedia Commons, providing a visual representation of the library in use. This image can be used for documentation, tutorials, or promotional materials related to the library.

### Copyright and Legal Status
The software is copyrighted, and its use is governed by the terms of the GNU Lesser General Public License. This ensures that the library remains a free and open-source tool for developers, while also allowing for its integration into proprietary software.

### Related Projects and Ecosystem
GLUI is part of a broader ecosystem of tools and libraries that support OpenGL development. Its compatibility with the GNU Lesser General Public License makes it a valuable addition to the open-source graphics and visualization toolkit. By providing a simple and efficient way to add GUI elements to OpenGL applications, GLUI helps developers create more interactive and user-friendly software.

## References

1. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013