Abstract: A building directory display system is disclosed having a light source positioned within a housing and a darkened glass door on the front of the housing. Directly behind the glass door, a plurality of panels are provided on which name strips are positioned. The panel also has a diffuser panel which diffuses light from the light source which then passes through the name strips having a black coating selectively etched to permit light passage therethrough. In order to prevent light from shining through cracks between the panels, each panel has side frames which overlap with one another and which, in combination with a panel retaining frame, permit simple removal of the panels for servicing.