Installing Google Fonts as npm packages with Fontsource

Google Fonts has long been a favorite resource for web developers seeking an extensive collection of free fonts for their projects. Typically, developers would integrate these fonts into their websites using the `<link>` tag or the `@import` rule in CSS, both pointing to the Google Fonts CDN. However, this approach introduces an extra HTTP request to the page, potentially impacting performance.

Moreover, it raises privacy concerns as Google may update fonts without notice, affecting live production projects.

To address these challenges, developers can turn to Fontsource, an open-source project that simplifies font integration by allowing users to install fonts, including Google Fonts, as npm packages. Fontsource offers a diverse range of fonts and provides an interface reminiscent of Google Fonts.

Why Fontsource?

Fontsource serves as a self-hosted font repository, offering a solution to the issues associated with traditional font integration methods. It not only streamlines the process but also enhances privacy by giving developers control over font updates.

Moreover, Fontsource eliminates the need for multiple HTTP requests and provides offline access to fonts, making it a favorable choice for Progressive Web App (PWA) development.

Getting Started with Fontsource

1. Installation

To get started, users can search for their desired font on the Fontsource website and obtain the installation command.

For instance, installing the Roboto font involves executing the following npm command:

npm install @fontsource/roboto

2. Integration

Once the desired font package is installed, it can be easily integrated into the project. In the application’s entry file, page, or site component, developers can import the font package using its name.

For example, to import the Roboto font into the `index.jsx` file, add the following code:

import "@fontsource/roboto";

3. Usage

With the font integrated, developers can now apply it to their project. In the CSS file, specify the font-family for the desired element.

For instance, using Roboto as the font for the body:

body {
    font-family: 'Roboto', sans-serif;
}

Advantages of Using Fontsource

1. Ease of Management
Fontsource simplifies the process of managing fonts in a project. The npm package structure allows for easy installation, removal, and updates, enhancing the overall development experience.

2. Privacy-Friendly
Fontsource grants developers more control over font updates, addressing privacy concerns associated with automatic updates pushed by external sources.

3. Reduced HTTP Requests
By hosting fonts locally, Fontsource eliminates the need for additional HTTP requests to external servers, contributing to improved page load times.

4. Offline Access
Fontsource allows developers to cache fonts using service workers, enabling offline access. This feature is particularly valuable for PWAs, ensuring a seamless user experience even without an internet connection.

Conclusion

Fontsource provides a convenient and efficient alternative to traditional methods of integrating Google Fonts into web projects. By leveraging npm packages, developers can enjoy greater control, enhanced privacy, and improved performance.

Whether you’re building a small website or a Progressive Web App, Fontsource offers a versatile solution for all your font integration needs.

You may also like: