Scripting the Linux desktop, Part 2: Scripting Nautilus

“This series of articles explores how to use Python to create
scripts for the GNOME desktop, the screenlets framework, and
Nautilus to deliver a highly productive environment. Scripts on the
desktop enable drag-and-drop functionality and quick access to the
information and services you commonly use. In this installment,
learn how to use Python to add functionality to extend Nautilus on
your desktop.

“For users of the GNOME desktop, the Nautilus program is
probably one of the more frequently used applications. It handles
all the file copying, moving, renaming, and searching chores with a
simple graphical interface. At first blush, it would appear there
aren’t many file-related things Nautilus can’t do—unless you
start thinking about tasks you would typically perform with a shell
script.

“The Nautilus developers provided several ways to add new
functionality without breaking open the main code base. The
simplest method is to use a bash or shell script that executes a
series of commands you would usually perform from a terminal
prompt. This method makes it possible to try the commands to make
sure they do what you want them to do first. You can use other
languages as well, including the C Scripting Language, GnomeBasic,
Perl, and Python. This article look at adding new capabilities to
Nautilus using the Python language. A basic understanding of the
Python language and the Python Standard Library is assumed.”

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