Libraries as bureaucracies: the viewpoints of librarians

Bureaucracy is usually associated with the negative consequences of large organisations such as “red tapeism”, unexplained delays, and general frustration. Max Weber assumed that the bureaucratic structure would always be the most effective approach. This study focused on how heads of libraries and practising librarians in selected libraries in Kwara State, Nigeria view bureaucracy within libraries using information obtained by means of a questionnaire and personal observation. It describes their views on the topic. The article concludes by calling on heads of libraries to begin to think more positively, at least with a view to creating a working environment that will de‐emphasise the strict compliance with bureaucratic values, particularly in Nigerian academic libraries.