I wonder if you all are aware that various outfits have been
compiling city directories (and other directories) for years,
usually without the knowledge, let alone consent, of people being
listed.  The classic city directory includes (or at least used to)
listings by name of person, by address, sometimes by telephone
number.  I know there are directories just by telephone number, in
order of the numbers.  The has been compiled from all sorts of
sources:  phone company, tax records, maybe lists of voters,
sometimes questionnaires, etc.  There's a lot of information about
all of us that is a matter of public record, and much of it has been
compiled into directories for years.  No, these directories are not
necessarily accurate and not necessarily inclusive (or exclusive,
depending on what you want), but they are handy for (yes) advertisers
and other businesses.  Long after they are "obsolete" they continue
to be handy for all sorts of historical research.  I guess I'm
saying, let's not be naive--the "Washington City Directory" has
already been compiled--it's out there.  We're probably all in a lot of
directories that we've never even heard about.  I'm inclined to agree
with Jim Czarniecki--it's an aspect of being part of a community.
 
(Mind you, I like privacy, too.  These things are never easy.)
 
 Nan Lawler, Special Collections
University of Arkansas Libraries
Fayetteville, AR  72701-1201
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