xlslib
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Description:
C++/C library to construct Excel .xls files in code
Type: Formula  |  Tracked Since: Dec 28, 2025
Links: Homepage  |  formulae.brew.sh
Category: Developer tools
Tags: excel xls c++ library file-format
Install: brew install xlslib
About:
Xlslib is a C++ and C library designed for generating Excel .xls files programmatically without requiring Microsoft Excel. It provides a robust API for creating spreadsheets, writing data, and formatting cells. This library is ideal for applications needing automated report generation or data export in the legacy Excel format.
Key Features:
  • Native C++ implementation with C bindings
  • No external dependencies or Excel installation required
  • Supports writing data, formulas, and cell formatting
  • Cross-platform compatibility
Use Cases:
  • Server-side report generation in C++ applications
  • Exporting database query results to Excel format
  • Automated data logging and spreadsheet creation
Alternatives:
  • libxlsxwriter – More modern alternative focused on the newer .xlsx format, whereas Xlslib targets the older .xls format.
  • Apache POI – Java-based library; Xlslib is preferred for C/C++ native environments.
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