Response to the Editor of Simmons Librarians


1. What issues do you want to work on as president of ALA?

€ In concert with ALA Goals 2000, use my expertise to position libraries for the 21st century with full participation in the I-way.
€ Campaign for more funding support and recognition for libraries
€ Enhance the value of libraries in the US
€ Merge library tradition with technology - find balance between traditional role and technology
€ Focus ALA on major library issues related to information services to all
€ Mount all-out effort to provide adequate services to children and youth
€ Push for programs related to cultural diversity
€ Promote equity for librarians
€ Promote global internetworking of libraries
€ Push ALA's active role in providing timely training opportunities for all types of librarians
€ Increasing membership participation in reaching ALA's goals
€ Improve management structure of ALA

2. What do you bring to ALA that makes you a unique candidate for ALA president?

(See the News Release of Friends to Elect Ching-chih Chen)

€ A proven leader in the profession
€ A librarian proven career and track record
€ A decorated educator and consultant
€ An accomplished advocate for national and global internetworking
€ A visionary and innovative professional who can lead the profession ONE STEP BEYOND!

3. What excites you about your current work?

€ Caring and concerns for students, the future blood of the profession
€ Having opportunities to work with all types of librarians and information professionals
€ Being able to influence national and international library information development

4. What questions or issues related to the profession are you currently working on?

I feel strongly on all issues outlined in #1, and currently am working very actively on almost every item listed.

In my role as an educator, I have worked hard to prepare all types of librarians to position themselves for the 21st century.

I make great effort to conceptualize problems and issues facing us -- locally, regionally, nationally and globally, and then address the base-line problems.

I love the challenge to participate in new development. This was demonstrated in my pioneering and innovative work in multimedia and optical technologies, and always carry the development ONE STEP BEYOND.

5. Have you recently seen an old issue in a new light?

We are living in an interesting time with unprecedented technological advances, with everything going on or being digital, and with the changing social, economical and political environments, almost all old issues need to be looked at and addressed in a new light in light of these changes.