telefonkatalog

Telefonkatalog is a Swedish term referring to a telephone directory. Historically, these were printed books containing lists of telephone subscribers, organized alphabetically by surname or business name, along with their respective telephone numbers and addresses. They were an essential tool for individuals and businesses to locate and contact others before the widespread adoption of digital technologies.

In Sweden, like in many other countries, the telephone directory was typically published annually. There were usually separate sections for residential subscribers and businesses. Companies and organizations would also place advertisements within the directories, often in the business section, to increase their visibility. The production and distribution of these large, often hefty, books were a significant undertaking.

With the advent of the internet and mobile phones, the reliance on printed telephone directories has dramatically decreased. Online search engines and digital contact lists have largely replaced their functionality. Consequently, the publication of traditional printed telefonkataloger has become increasingly rare, with many companies that once produced them having ceased operations or transitioned to digital-only services. While the physical book is largely obsolete, the term "telefonkatalog" still evokes memories of a time when finding a phone number required consulting a physical directory.