React JS is often referred to as a library rather than a framework because it focuses on a specific area of web development: building user interfaces (UIs). Frameworks, on the other hand, provide a more comprehensive solution for building web applications, including tools and features for handling routing, data management, and other aspects of development.
Here are some reasons why React JS is typically considered a library rather than a framework:
- Specific Focus: React JS is primarily focused on building UIs, and provides tools for creating and managing components. It does not include features for handling routing, state management, or other aspects of web development.
- Flexibility: Because React JS is a library, it can be used with a variety of other tools and frameworks, including Redux, React Native, and GraphQL. This can make it more flexible than a framework that has a more rigid structure.
- Lighter Weight: React JS is often seen as a lighter weight option than full-stack frameworks like Angular or Ember. This is because React JS provides only the tools and features necessary for building UIs, without adding extra overhead for other areas of development.
- Modular Design: React JS is designed to be modular, with each component encapsulating its own logic and behavior. This makes it easier to reuse components across different parts of an application, and can make the code more maintainable over time.
Overall, React JS is often considered a library because it focuses on a specific area of web development (UIs) and provides a flexible, lightweight solution that can be used with other tools and frameworks. While some developers may prefer the more comprehensive approach provided by frameworks, React JS’s modular design and specific focus can make it a powerful tool for building UIs in web applications.