What is MapLibre?
MapLibre is an open-source, community-led mapping platform designed as an alternative to proprietary solutions like Google Maps. Based on Leaflet and Mapbox GL JavaScript libraries, MapLibre provides embeddable interactive maps that can be customized via a JavaScript API or CSS.
Key features of MapLibre include:
- Interactive slippy maps with panning, zooming, markers, popups
- Custom map styles and vector tiles using Mapbox GL JSON spec
- Geocoding for converting addresses to geographic coordinates
- Routing and navigation between points
- Traffic information and public transit layers
- Supports various open data sets like OpenStreetMap
As MapLibre is open-source and doesn't require an API key, it provides an economical alternative to Google Maps or Mapbox for mapping web or mobile applications. Developers and businesses have full control over customizing MapLibre to their needs without restrictive usage limits or fees.
MapLibre is community-driven via organizations like Open Source Geospatial Foundation (OSGeo). Over time features may be added to support 3D maps, satellite/aerial imagery, geofencing, and offline usage.