Which of the following directories typically stores library files?

The directory that typically stores library files is /lib. This directory contains essential shared libraries and kernel modules required for the system to function properly. Shared libraries are collections of programming functions that can be used by multiple programs at the same time, promoting reuse of code and efficient memory usage.

The /lib directory is crucial because it contains the libraries needed for the core components of the system to run. These libraries include those for system calls and basic operating system functions, among others. Without these libraries, many fundamental commands and processes would fail to execute.

Other directories listed serve different purposes. For instance, /usr is used for user applications and utility programs, which can include some libraries; however, it’s primarily a location for user-level applications rather than essential system libraries. The /var directory is for variable data files, such as logs and databases, while /tmp is used for temporary files created by applications and can be cleared easily. Thus, /lib is the correct answer as it serves the specific role of storing vital library files needed by the operating system.