Global Libraries: Introduction

[Jan Millan]

The traditional Archicad Library system, now being referred to as the "Monolith Library," was the standard for versions released prior to Archicad 28. This system was version-specific, providing all necessary objects and tools within a single, comprehensive library package tailored to each language version of Archicad. However, it had several limitations, such as migration challenges across different versions, compatibility issues across different language versions, as well as increased workload for development teams as each language version required separate updates, adding to the complexity.

In contrast, the Global Library, introduced with Archicad 28, offers a modular and scalable solution. This modern system allows users to access a streamlined and regularly updated set of library parts that support expanded content, improved international collaboration, and easier migration to future versions. These parts can be used across various projects, regardless of language version. The transition to the Global Library is designed to improve flexibility, reduce redundancy, and provide users with a wider range of library elements.

Key Benefits of the Global Library

1. Global Availability: Previously, each Archicad language version had its own library. The new Global Library ensures all content is available in all language versions, promoting international collaboration.
2. Content Expansion: The consolidation of libraries has added approximately 200 new items from other language versions’ libraries.
3. Cross-Border Collaboration: The template now defines the default language and standards for library parts. For example, a USA template will display objects in English with imperial measurements, even if the object originates from another language version’s library.
4. Easier Plan Migration: The Global Library is compatible with future Archicad versions. Users can add new Library Packages to existing projects without migration. Library updates are streamlined, requiring only the replacement of the previous version with the new one in the Library Manager.
5. Faster Delivery: The new infrastructure allows for quicker and more extensive library content delivery.

 

Key Functional Changes

1. Library Manager:
   1. Default Library Packages: The template will automatically define default library packages, with additional packages available as needed. This ensures a streamlined workflow, as package dependencies are managed automatically, reducing the need for manual intervention.
   2. Global Library Forward Compatibility: Starting with Archicad 28, the Global Library system removes the need for version-specific suffixes in object names, ensuring forward compatibility.
2. Object Settings Dialog: Enhanced views, including a new Folder View with Sources, allow for better organization and loading of library packages.
3. Model View Options (MVO): A more streamlined MVO UI with new detail levels and settings for doors, windows, skylights, curtain walls, and other elements.

 

Migration Guidelines

1. Timing: Users are advised to transition to the Global Library when starting new projects. Ongoing projects should continue with the Monolithic Library to avoid compatibility issues on active projects.
2. Compatibility Between Library systems: Mixing objects from the Monolithic and Global Libraries in the same project is not recommended. The Global Library introduces a fundamental change to the system, and placed objects, tool defaults, favorites, and Model View Options (MVO) settings are not compatible between the two libraries.
   1. MEP Library Exception: MEP objects from the Archicad 27 MEP Library can be migrated to the Archicad 28 MEP Libpack. However, users must manually replace the MEP Library during migration.
3. Template Compatibility: Archicad 28 introduces package-based templates for both “built-in” and “online” versions of the template. Custom templates can be created from scratch based on these or they can be converted from existing templates to be compatible with the new Global Library.

For more information see Migrating to Archicad 28

Additional Considerations

1. Access To Traditional Library: The traditional library “Archicad Library 28”, along with Migration libraries, will be provided in the Archicad folder as they have been in previous versions. This ensures that users who wish to migrate ongoing projects can still use the familiar Monolith libraries, maintaining continuity and compatibility with their existing workflows.
2. Archicad Legacy Objects: Legacy objects from older libraries are provided as LCF files for specific regions and are downloadable from the BIM Components website.
3. Language Localization: The Global Library supports all Archicad languages, allowing content localization based on the project’s default template settings. Built-in library parts will retain their language according to the Archicad version, with plans to migrate these to the Global Library in the future. 
4. Custom Components: Custom components from the Monolithic Library need to be re-saved for compatibility with the Global Library. 
5. MEP Functionalities: MEP library settings must be adjusted in the new system, and backward migration involving MEP objects is not supported.
6. Non-Libpart Content: Legacy list schemes and templates are replaced with the Interactive Schedule and Properties function. Example files and non-customizable components are no longer included.