Method and system for extended directory service

An approach is disclosed for providing an extended directory service over a communication system including a data network and a telephony network. A subscriber submits a request for directory information to the communication system according to a first communication mode. The system accesses a directory among multiple directories in response to the request, wherein the directories include an internal directory associated with the subscriber and an external directory not associated with the subscriber. The directory information from the selected directory is retrieved and forwarded to the subscriber according to a second communication mode.