How does ldap_init() works?

[<anmais@in.gr>]

I'm working with Mandrake 8.0 and need some help because I'm new with linux.I want to
 use ldap_init(),ldap_bind(),ldap_search(),ldap_first_entry(),etc.They locate in
/usr/local/man/man3.I noticed that ldap_init.3 points to ldap_open.3,ldap_search_s.3
points to ldap_search.3,etc.
What does it means and how can I compile them to take the results to see if they work?
Thanks a lot