If I use LGPL libraries in my web application, do I have to provide the server-side source code?

Question

My Rails application uses the Rails SVN bindings here which are distributed under the terms of the LGPL.

By using these bindings, am I therefore required to distribute my Rails project?

Answer 1

I'm not a lawyer,

but,

GPL doesn't require you to publish your source to the public. It only requires you to distribute the source along with the application if you distribute (sell, etc) the application to someone.

LGPL doesn't even require that; it only requires you distribute the sources of the library (and any modifications you make to it); not the application itself.

If people are accessing your webapp through the browser, that doesn't count as distributing the application. (for that, there's the AGPL)