Directories

According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, a directory is defined as:

1. a book or collection of directions, rules or ordinances, or
2. an alphabetical or classified list (as of names and addresses).

The majority of us use directories daily, both on the job and at home, to locate phone numbers, people, businesses, services and other useful information. Yet in this age of technology, we often lean toward computer-based directories, rather than flipping through the thick, heavy books that have long been a staple in most households, businesses and libraries.

When shopping for business, household or gift items, we routinely peruse online directories that list the stores that carry those items. When we need a phone number or address, we can often type the person’s name into one of the many internet search engines and retrieve the information from a directory. Criminal investigators, law enforcement officers and lawyers consult directories that list details about those who have been convicted of crimes. We use directories to find old schoolmates, to check on fellow college alumni and to research travel information. Genealogy searches are based upon multiple directories. And a great deal of history has been preserved through meticulously detailed directories.

One type of directory that continues to be useful to upwardly mobile teens and adults is an educational directory, which may list public and private high schools, boarding schools, traditional universities, online degree programs, grants and scholarships, fields of study, and other helpful information. Many parents use educational directories to make choices about their child’s education, even at the preschool level. Working adults often consult directories of online schools, which may provide valuable information about professional certificates, bachelor’s or online master degree programs, and trade schools. This information is helpful to those seeking to improve skills on the current job, or to prepare for entrance into a more promising field of employment.

We generally take directories for granted; but they are an essential and valuable tool of our daily lives.