# 7.8. Distribution of sources - src_distribute_local.bbclass

## 7.8. Distribution of sources - `src_distribute_local.bbclass`

Many software licenses require that source files be provided along with the binaries. To simplify this process, two classes were created: `src_distribute.bbclass` and `src_distribute_local.bbclass`.

The results of these classes are `tmp/deploy/source/` subdirs with sources sorted by `LICENSE` field. If recipes list few licenses (or have entries like "Bitstream Vera"), the source archive is placed in each license directory.

This class operates using three modes:

- copy: Copies the files to the distribute directory.

- symlink: Symlinks the files to the distribute directory.

- move+symlink: Moves the files into the distribute directory and then symlinks them back.