- Hometown: Oklahoma City, Okla.; I grew up in Taiwan.
- Role: Administrative librarian, Oklahoma Department of Libraries
- Years of legislative service: 24
“Always ask questions when you have doubts. This is still my daily practice.”
Chen
Why did you choose to work at the Legislature?
I started working in the library as a reference librarian, then legislative librarian. I didn’t know anything about the law when I started and learned a lot from the beginning.
What does the Oklahoma Department of Libraries do?
It’s the official state library of Oklahoma. It serves the information and records management needs of state government, assists with public library development, coordinates library and information technology projects for the state, and serves the public through its specialized collections.
What skill or talent are you most proud of?
Doing legal research and legal reference.
What’s the best advice you were ever given?
Always ask questions when you have doubts. This is still my daily practice. I ask lots of questions.
Who or what inspires you?
My previous supervisor, Susan Gilley. She taught me a lot and I still use most of what I learned from her now.
What’s one thing you love about your state or territory?
Lots of blue sky and green grass.
What are you currently reading/listening to/watching?
“The Secret Lives of Booksellers and Librarians,” by James Patterson. It was a Mother’s Day present from my daughter this year.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity. Use the email icon above to suggest a legislative staffer for the “Staff Snapshots” series.