How to use tempfile crate in Rust temporary files

Use tempfile::tempdir() to create a temporary directory that automatically deletes itself when dropped, or tempfile::NamedTempFile for a single file. In the rustc_codegen_gcc project, tempdir() is used in src/back/lto.rs to store intermediate LTO bitcode files safely during compilation.

use tempfile::tempdir;

fn prepare_lto() -> tempfile::TempDir {
    let tmp_path = tempdir().expect("Cannot create temporary directory");
    // Use tmp_path.path() to write files; they auto-delete when tmp_path drops
    tmp_path
}

The tempfile crate creates temporary files or folders that your program uses for short-term storage. It automatically cleans up these files when your program is done with them, so you don't have to manually delete them. Think of it like a disposable scratchpad that erases itself the moment you close it.