The City directory collection ranges in date from the late 18th-century through the middle of the 20th-century, though most directories were published between 1870 and 1930. Holdings are strongest in U.S. directories (for large cities, small towns, and rural areas) but the Newberry also holds directories from Canada, Latin America, Europe, and Asia. In addition the city and county directories, the collection includes fraternal, business, society, and telephone directories.

Directories are available in multiple formats, including print, microfilm, and microfiche. This inventory includes cross references and items that are individually cataloged in the Newberry’s online catalog. Dates listed for some items reflect the date coverage rather than the date of the actual item.