Academic library managers need to understand the work motivation of their staff and what inspires librarians to maximum productivity and enthusiasm as well as what prevents them from striving to achieve excellence. In a literature search, the authors found only one previous study of the work motivation of librarians in Vietnam, indicating a need for further research in this area. Using a self-designed questionnaire based on Abraham Maslow's hierarchy of needs, the authors surveyed and interviewed 220 librarians who work in 78 libraries to find out what factors affect their job motivation. The study also points out differences in motivations between academic librarians and other librarians and makes recommendations to help library managers improve staff performance.