C++ library to load Excel (.xls) files

calendar_today Asked May 20, 2010
thumb_up 11 upvotes
history Updated April 16, 2026

Question posted 2010 · +6 upvotes

I’m looking for a free C++ library that can load .xls files in both Windows and Linux. If I had to make a choice, Linux would be the bare minimum.

I’ve tried LibXL, but got this amazing error:

“can’t read more cells in trial version”

So now I’m on the hunt for a free version :), unfortunately xlsLib doesn’t provide the ability to load existing .xls files.

Thanks

Accepted answer +11 upvotes

We have had success with: ExcelFormat

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