Requesting a Large Number of Directories

This guidance is for those interested in requesting a large number of print directories housed in the John Adams Building including Street Address, Criss-Cross, Telephone Books, and City Business Directories. These directories are not in the catalog, so there are separate steps for requesting these items. Please read these policies carefully before making a request:

• Directories are served in the Science & Business Reading Room on the 5th floor of the John Adams Building. 
• Directory requests need to be submitted in person via paper slip at the book services desk in the Science & Business Reading Room.
• There is a maximum of 40 directories per person per day. Requests that contain more than 40 directories will be truncated at 40 items. 
• We strongly encourage submitting bulk directory requests at least 24 hours in advance in person. Same day requests can take up to 2 hours.
• Directory requests need to include (a) type of directory: Street Address, Criss-Cross, Telephone Book, or City Business), (b) location, including state, and (c) specific years. Library staff will only pull the volumes that are specifically requested.
• Once you’ve arrived, check in at the book service desk so staff can deliver your cart of directories.
• No carts are kept in the reading room overnight; let staff know if you plan to continue to use the directories at a future appointment.

Effective April 4, 2022