How has support for local::lib changed across recent Perl versions?

Support for local::lib in Perl has evolved over recent versions in multiple ways. Initially introduced to facilitate the installation of Perl modules in user-defined directories, the use of local::lib has become increasingly seamless and user-friendly, reflecting the growing need for developers to manage their environments without requiring administrative permissions.

With the later versions of Perl, especially from Perl 5.20 onwards, local::lib has integrated better with tools like CPAN minus and other CPAN clients. Additionally, enhancements and automatic configuration setups have greatly simplified the process of initiating a local::lib environment.

For instance, you can easily set up a local library using the following command:

This command installs the local::lib module, allowing you to create your own directory for Perl modules, ensuring you do not affect the system-wide Perl installation.

Overall, the improvements in local::lib over the years emphasize a trend towards easier and more flexible Perl module management for developers, enhancing productivity and reducing friction in development workflows.