A diachronic study of personal motivation in Malta’s library sector

Abstract

This study analyses the personal motivation of students and workers involved in the library sector in Malta. Personal motivation is examined in three distinct phases, namely motivation to study, motivation at the workplace and motivation to develop and grow. Abraham Maslow’s theory of human motivation serves as the main point of reference around which the analysis revolves, although Frederick Herzberg’s motivation-hygiene theory also features in the discussion. Research was carried out by means of a questionnaire, directed at library students and workers, and interviews conducted with library managers and professionals. Findings highlight the personal dimension as regards motivation to study and commitment to develop and grow, endorsing Maslow’s hierarchy of needs theory. Other conclusions point at a strong link between motivation and work. The analysis shows that, in general, intrinsic job characteristics contribute to a sense of satisfaction and that complaints emanate from factors that are extrinsic to actual work carried out. The study acknowledges the potential of motivation at the workplace but low career advancement opportunities, among other issues, cast shadows on motivation. In conclusion, recommendations are put forward to counter weaknesses and threats noted in the course of this research and to boost the motivation of people involved in the library sector.