Abstract: A method and apparatus for running a computer program containing references to a library utilizes a load time linker to insert addresses of referenced library items directly into the program code at run-time. The linking loader causes a delay that is not objectionable to the user. The method includes the steps of maintaining in computer memory a shared library including library items and a library symbol table. A relocatable file representing the computer program is loaded into the computer memory when the computer program is to be run. Addresses of library items that are referenced in the program code are found in the library symbol table, and the addresses of the library items are inserted directly into the program code of the relocatable file in computer memory. After the relocatable file is loaded from disk to memory, all operations are performed in computer memory, resulting in high speed operation.