Wrapper library

Wrapper libraries (or library wrappers) consist of a thin layer of code (a "shim") which translates a library's existing interface into a compatible interface. This is done for several reasons:

• To refine a poorly designed or complicated interface
• Allow code to work together which otherwise cannot (e.g. incompatible data formats)
• Enable cross language and/or runtime interoperability

Wrapper libraries can be implemented using the adapter, façade, and to a lesser extent, proxy design patterns.