EXHIBIT 23.1


                       CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS

We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement 
(Form S-3 No. 333-02247) of United Stationers Inc. and in the related 
Prospectus of our reports dated June 27, 1995 with respect to the 
consolidated financial statements and schedule of United Stationers Inc. for 
the seven-month period ended March 30, 1995 and January 28, 1996 with respect 
to the consolidated financial statements and schedules of United Stationers 
Inc. as of and for the years ended December 31, 1996 and 1995 included in 
this Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended December 31, 1996.

                                              /s/Ernst & Young LLP



Chicago, Illinois
March 25, 1997