ZIP code directories...may they rest in peace

Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal reporter Lena Mitchell had a run-in with a window clerk at her local post office recently over ZIP code directories. Apparently they are no longer being printed.

She writes, "Surely if the post office can spread itself into so many areas outside its basic business of delivering letter mail - including a boutique of postal gifts, clothing, collectibles, online bill-paying and other services - it can give us a basic service like onsite ZIP code information."

According to a post office spokesperson, the postal service discontinued placing ZIP code directories in post offices in 2004.

By the way, the ZIP in ZIP code is actually an acronym for "Zoning Improvement Plan." Mr. ZIP (shown above) appeared on the selvage of stamp panes on many stamp issues, beginning with the Sam Houston stamp of 1964.

To read Lena's article, click here.