# How to Use the jq Module System with -L and --library-path: Complete Guide

> Master the jq module system with -L and --library-path. Learn to split programs, import modules, and manage custom directories for efficient jq scripting.

- Repository: [jqlang/jq](https://github.com/jqlang/jq)
- Tags: tutorial
- Published: 2026-04-11

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**The jq module system lets you split programs into reusable `.jq` files imported via `import` or `include`, while the `-L` (or `--library-path`) command-line option prepends custom directories to the module search chain, checked before built-in defaults like `~/.jq` and `$ORIGIN/../lib/jq`.**

jq includes a built-in module system that enables you to organize complex JSON processing logic into reusable components. Understanding how the **jq module system with -L --library-path** configures module discovery is essential for managing