title: C++: Include vs LoadLibrary()
body: <p>I am having some trouble understanding why both #include and LoadLibrary() is needed in C++. In C++ "#include" forces the pre-processor to replace the #include line with the contents of the file you are including (usually a header file containing declarations). As far as I understand, this enables me to use the routines I might want in the external libraries the headers belong to.</p>
  
  <p>Why do I then need LoadLibrary()? Can't i just #include the library itself?</p>
  
  <p>Just as a side note: In C#, which I am more familiar with, I just Add a Reference to a DLL if I want to use types or routines from that DLL in my program. I do not have to #include anything, as the .NET framework apparently automatically searches all the referenced assemblies for the routines I want to use (as specified by the namespace)</p>
  
  <p>Thank you very much in advance.</p>
  
  <p><em>Edit: Used the word "definitions", but meant "declarations". Now fixed.</em></p>
  
  <p><em><strong>Edit 2: Tough to pick one answer, many good replies. Thanks for all contributions.</em></strong></p>