> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.libre.org/libre-docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.libre.org/libre-docs/start-here/libre-level-1-beginner.md).

# Libre in Brief

Welcome to Libre! Ready to learn about Libre - we've got you covered.

Welcome to the Libre blockchain.

1. <mark style="background-color:orange;">What is Libre?</mark>

Libre is a decentralized lending marketplace built on a smart contract blockchain platform. It allows anyone to permissionlessly borrow against Bitcoin collateral or provide liquidity and earn predictable yields. Libre operates with no transaction fees, no gatekeepers, and complete transparency.

Libre is completely Decentralized, Fair Launched, and the Eco-Friendliest Blockchain with the lowest energy usage per daily transaction max.

Bitcoin Libre was conceived and launched in El Salvador in 2021, then Libre the chain launched on 4 July 2022 and construction of the vaults began by the community devs, completing development for v1 in Jan 2025.

2. <mark style="background-color:orange;">Why is Libre unique?</mark>

Libre solves the "Trilemma" of blockchains - it is a "Trifecta" - **scalable**, **decentralized**, and **secure**. It is also very easy to use due to having human-readable account names instead of addresses and no transaction fees. Unlike other lending platforms, Libre ensures your Bitcoin collateral remains untouched until your loan is repaid or liquidation occurs, with no rehypothecation.

3. <mark style="background-color:orange;">Who is behind Libre?</mark>

Libre was designed and built by several groups working together.

* Edenia - smart contract development team out (Costa Rica)
* Bizan Bizz, SA - backend and frontend development team (Panama / Europe / US)
* Various other contributors around the world.

4. <mark style="background-color:orange;">Read Libre Documentation.</mark>

It's right here on this site, with information about [Technical Details](https://gitlab.com/libre-chain/libre-chain-gitbook/-/tree/main/technical-details/README.md), [Governance](https://gitlab.com/libre-chain/libre-chain-gitbook/-/tree/main/governance/README.md), [Cross-Chain Interoperability](/libre-docs/advanced-features/cross-chain-interoperability.md), and the [LIBRE coin](https://gitlab.com/libre-chain/libre-chain-gitbook/-/tree/main/the-libre-reward-coin/README.md).

5. <mark style="background-color:orange;">How to get started.</mark>

Download the [Bitcoin Libre wallet](https://bitcoinlibre.io) or use [Anchor Wallet](https://gitlab.com/libre-chain/libre-chain-gitbook/-/tree/main/accounts-and-wallets/anchor-wallet/README.md). Make sure to backup your seed phrase so you don't lose any funds.

6. <mark style="background-color:orange;">How to get the LIBRE coin.</mark>

LIBRE trades on the decentralized Libre Swap - you can send in some Bitcoin into Bitcoin Libre and go to <https://defi.libre.org/swap> to trade for LIBRE.

7. <mark style="background-color:orange;">How to stake LIBRE.</mark>

LIBRE staking is where you lock up your LIBRE for a time period chosen by you. This is your commitment to being a part of LIBRE for a specified time duration. The longer you stake, the higher your rewards. The earlier you begin, the higher your rewards. You can do this at <https://defi.libre.org/wallet>

8. <mark style="background-color:orange;">Join the Libre community.</mark>

Join the many Libre communities - start with the main [Telegram](https://t.me/LibreBlockchain) community group. Start one for your language if it doesn't exist yet.

For the latest info - follow [Libre on Twitter.](https://twitter.com/libreblockchain)

9. <mark style="background-color:orange;">Libre Philosophy</mark>

'The technical aspects of the automobile seemed daunting at first compared with the horse, yet its superior reliability and speed have made the technical knowledge needed to operate a fair price to pay for most people.'

Libre has been built with the aim of seemingly riding the horse, with the function and speed built-in for maximum usability and easy adoption. By focusing on lending against Bitcoin collateral, Libre unlocks the full potential of your Bitcoin while maintaining self-custody principles.