What ExtraLib is
ExtraLib is a library mod for Minecraft mod developers. Rather than adding gameplay or content, it provides reusable components that other modders can depend on to build features faster. If you're creating a mod and need database access, configuration management, or custom in-game menus, this library gives you pre-built solutions instead of having to code them from scratch.
Core components
The library provides utility classes for common development tasks in Minecraft mod creation. A thread timer handles asynchronous operations, which is critical when mods need to perform slow tasks without freezing the main game thread. File I/O, network requests, and database queries can all run asynchronously using this component. Configuration management covers both YAML and JSON file formats, with the ability to save them asynchronously. This matters because modders need to persist settings to disk, but synchronous writes cause lag. The background saving prevents these delays. For mods that need persistent data across server restarts or multiple server instances, the database module connects to MySQL, MariaDB, or PostgreSQL servers. This enables features like player statistics, leaderboards, cross-server inventories, or any data that needs to survive beyond a single world save. The UI module gives modders a foundation for building in-game menus and interfaces based on the SGui library. Rather than implementing menu rendering, text input, and click handling from scratch, modders can focus on their mod's unique features.
Who it's for
This is a developer tool for mod creators. Look, if you want to add database-backed features to your mods without writing extensive infrastructure code, or if you need persistent configuration and custom interfaces, ExtraLib saves development time. It's useful for modpack creators, server administrators building custom mods, or anyone developing Minecraft mods with data persistence requirements.
Technical details and compatibility
ExtraLib operates entirely on the server side and has no client-side functionality. While client-side mods can't use it directly, mods designed to run on both sides can depend on it for their server features. The library supports three major mod loaders: Fabric, Forge, and NeoForge. It works with Minecraft versions 1.20.1 and 1.21.1. The entire project is available under the MIT License, which means the source code is open and free to use, modify, and distribute under those license terms.
