Directories

In this section, we will introduce you to directories. A directory is one more category of ready reference tool possessing rich information needed by the library users. Every library gets a number of queries for directory-type information. So, it is essential for the reference librarian to acquire different kinds of directories suitable to answer these queries satisfactorily:

Directories are tertiary reference sources which aid the searcher in using the primary and secondary sources. Directories can be institutional providing information regarding the name, structure, objectives, functions, addresses, operational activities, officers; members, etc., of various types of institutions. There are directories of persons, that cover information about the name, ad-dress, status, academic qualifications, profession, experience, affiliations, etc., of individuals. The entries in the directory are systematically arranged in alphabetical or classified order. The term `directory' is also used for a list of newspapers, events, periodicals and so on. They vary in kind, scope, purpose and size. 

Apart from yearbooks and almanacs which provide a separate section of the directory, such information can also be located in encyclopaedias; biographical sources, geographical sources and also some government and -institutional publications. But 'a reference librarian usually prefers to consult a directory first, as he is sure to get the information from it. Sometimes, he may have to search for directory-type information from other reference sources. There are various kinds of directories. It is not essential that the word `directory' should always appear in the title.