Whereas, the Oshkosh Public Library Board of Trustees and the staff of the Oshkosh Public Library recognize that we build a stronger and more diverse community by actively sharing our ideas and opinions with others in thoughtful and considerate ways; and
Whereas, the Library’s board and staff endorse the idea that by practicing a basic commitment to civility, we learn and grow from one another - even in disagreement; and
Whereas, the Oshkosh Civility Project has put forward nine skills of civil discourse which, if widely and habitually practiced, will foster a community that allows the expression of all views freely and without fear; and
Whereas, these nine skills of civil discourse are as follows:
1. Pay Attention
Be Aware of Others & Sensitive to the Immediate Context of Actions
2. Listen Closely
Understand Other Points of View
3. Be Inclusive
Welcome All; Don't Exclude Anyone
4. Don't Gossip
Remind Others of the Importance of this Practice
5. Show Respect
Honor Others (Especially in Disagreement)
6. Be Agreeable
Find Opportunities to Agree
7. Apologize Sincerely
Repair Damaged Relationships
8. Give Constructive Comments, Suggestions & Feedback
No Personal Attacks (Focus on Issues)
9. Accept Responsibility
Don't Shift Blame; Share Disagreements Publicly; and
Whereas, the Oshkosh Common Council and the Oshkosh Public Library Board, in 2011, adopted resolutions affirming the principles of civility and adopting them as part of their operating procedures; and
Whereas, the Mayor proclaimed August 2018 to be “Civility Month in the City of Oshkosh” at the meeting of the Oshkosh Common Council on August 15, 2018;
Therefore, be it resolved that we, the members of the Oshkosh Public Library Board, re-commit ourselves to practicing and promulgating the nine skills of civil discourse as we discharge our duties as trustees; and
Be it further resolved that we charge the staff of the Oshkosh Public Library with practicing and promulgating the nine skills of civil discourse as they serve the people who use the library and as they interact with their library co-workers.