jQuery is an open source library that needs to be added to the standard JavaScript either by including it within the site JavaScript or by referencing it on a content delivery network.
What jQuery is
jQuery is a somewhat large library of useful and reusable methods designed to simplify client-side development. jQuery wraps many built in JavaScript features in a way that makes them easier to understand and develop for.
jQuery focuses on many things, but one of the most prominent advantages of using the library is that adds animation effects. Other features include making event handling easier, cross-platform development much less painful and selecting elements much easier.