LightNet is an open-source developer tool that makes it easy to run digital media libraries for ministries. Built on the Astro web framework, it generates fast, static sites that share videos, audio, documents, images, and links, with no database, no backend, no tracking, and no ads.^1
Created by MediaWorks, a ministry of OM (Operation Mobilisation), LightNet was first developed in 2020 from a real need: ministries around the world struggle with scattered media, with files stuck on personal devices, lost in social media feeds, or fragmented across platforms. LightNet brings everything into one searchable, customizable place that ministries fully control.^2 ^6
The tool is designed for developers, not end users. Developers start from the example template and the getting-started guide, then customize branding, language, and content to fit a community. LightNet supports any language and any media type, is built to reach people on older devices and slower connections, and can be hosted anywhere.^1 ^3
The LightNet ecosystem includes an experimental administration interface built on Sveltia CMS for managing content, and a Plausible Analytics integration for privacy-friendly usage insights.^4 The MediaWorks Digital Library is a live example of a LightNet site in use.^4 An October 2026 EMDC report counted eight digital media libraries online, with around 40 teams and individuals exploring how LightNet could serve their communities.^6 The project is actively maintained on GitHub under the MIT License.^4
LightNet is featured on EMDC.tools, the Eurasia Media & Distribution Consultation resource directory, as a recommended tool for global missions media distribution.^5 It is free and open source under the MIT License. Ministries cover only their own hosting and domain costs. The project welcomes contributions of code, ideas, financial support, and testimonies.^3
