Librarians as Teachers: The Study of an Organization Fiction

Abstract

This article explains the concept and use of the organization fiction. An organization fiction from librarianship is identified. It is the fiction that librarians are teachers. The fiction is used by librarians to provide a more comforting self-image, to bolster a status claim, and to relate the profession to the world outside it. The paper argues that this fiction is dysfunctional because it is harmful and costly. It deters the development of a consistent professional self-image among librarians. It results in an uncertain identity, in personal discomfort, and in dissension among librarians.