Your name, current work place and position (for students, please tell us what school you’re attending and if you have chosen a specialization):
Holly Okamura, Santa Clara County Library District — Saratoga Library, Children’s Librarian
Where did you attend school for your MLIS degree?
San Jose State University
How long have you been an APALA member? Why did you first join? Are you currently involved as an officer/committee member/other volunteer?
I’ve been a member since I began my library studies nearly 10 years ago. I joined because I was new to the profession and was delighted that there was a professional group that supported Asian/Pacific American Librarians. I am currently on the Talk Story Committee and serve as one of the web-coordinators.
We’re very interested in the diversity of ethnic/cultural heritage within APALA. Please share your ethnic/cultural heritage with us and any other background information, as desired.
My last name is currently Okamura (which I got from my Japanese-American partner). However, I am Vietnamese-American. When my parents immigrated to the US during the Vietnam War, they settled in Oxnard, a small farming community that is heavily influenced by Hispanic culture. Being exposed to a variety of cultures has really shaped my world.
What aspects of librarianship are key to your personal satisfaction at work? Please share some of your professional goals and interests.
As a children’s librarian, I am constantly motivated by the phrase, “Be who you needed when you were younger.” A huge aspect of my professional and personal goals is guided by my desire to be authentic and thoughtful when dealing with the public — especially children.
Is there anything else you’d like to add?
I work really hard to be the person my dog thinks I am!
This interview was conducted by Jaena Rae Cabrera, with editorial assistance by Deborah Caldwell.