Contributing to the Free Software Directory: A Weekly Update (October 24, 2025)
The Free Software Directory (FSD) is a vital resource for anyone seeking genuinely free and open-source software.Every week, a dedicated community of volunteers collaborates to maintain and expand this invaluable catalog. This article details the progress made during the Friday,October 24th,2025 meeting,highlighting new additions and updates to the directory. Are you passionate about free software and wont to contribute? Read on to learn how you can get involved.
What is the Free software Directory?
The FSD, a project of the Free Software Foundation (FSF), isn’t just a list.It’s a curated collection of useful free software compatible with free GNU-like operating systems – encompassing not only GNU/Linux distributions but also other systems adhering to free software principles. It’s a cornerstone of the free software movement, empowering users with choice and control.
Key Facts About the FSD
- Purpose: Cataloging free software for GNU-like systems.
- Maintainer: The Free Software Foundation (FSF).
- Community Driven: Maintained by volunteer contributions.
- Accessibility: Available at directory.fsf.org
Celebrating Our Volunteers
The FSD thrives thanks to the dedication of its volunteer community. Each week, we recognize those who generously donate their time and expertise.
A special thank you to nnq for their work in getting Licar approved for inclusion in the directory! Their contribution directly expands the resources available to free software users.
Did You Know? The FSD currently lists over 20,000 software packages, covering a vast range of categories and functionalities. (As of October 27, 2025)
New Software Added: Licar – A Blast from the Past
This week saw the approval of a new program: Licar (Libre Car). This is a minimalist, ”KISS” (Keep It Simple, Stupid) racing game reminiscent of the 90s.
* Category: Game
* License: Free Software License
* Description: A lightweight, retro-style racing experiance.
Licar’s inclusion demonstrates the FSD’s commitment to showcasing a diverse range of free software, even those offering a nostalgic experience. Do you enjoy retro gaming? Licar might be worth checking out!
Ongoing Directory Improvements & Updates
Beyond new additions, volunteers also dedicate time to updating existing entries. this includes verifying licenses, ensuring accuracy of descriptions, and adding missing information.maintaining the quality and reliability of the FSD is an ongoing process.
Pro Tip: When submitting software to the FSD, ensure you clearly state the license under which it’s released. This speeds up the approval process and ensures compliance with free software principles.
How you Can Contribute to the Free software Directory
Want to help shape the future of free software? There are several ways to get involved:
- Join the IRC Meeting: Participate in the weekly meetings held every Friday in #fsf on Libera.Chat from 12:00 to 15:0
