Equal Employment Opportunity Policy

Library Board approved November 16, 2004. Revised January 24, 2023.

Introduction

The Oak Park Public Library is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating and supporting a work environment that is anti-racist, diverse, equitable, and inclusive for the benefit of our staff, our collections, our programs and services, our patrons, and our community.

Equal Opportunity Defined

The library will provide equal opportunity to all staff members and applicants for employment regardless of actual or perceived race (and traits associated with race including but not limited to hair texture and protective hairstyles such as braids, locks, and twists), color, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, work authorization status, age, religion, marital status, disability, sex, gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, military or veteran status, order of protection status, genetic information, or any other category protected by applicable law. Such action shall include, but is not limited to: initial consideration for employment; job placement and assignment of responsibilities; performance assessment; promotion and advancement; compensation and benefits; training and professional development opportunities; formulation and application of human resource policies and rules; facility and service accessibility; and discipline and termination.

Reporting and Investigation Procedure

The library strongly encourages use of this policy when necessary. Any employee who believes this policy has been violated should report the situation to the Human Resources Director or the Executive Director. All such matters will be held in confidence, thoroughly investigated and rectified if a policy violation is identified. Please refer to the library’s Non-Discrimination and Anti-Harassment Policy for more detailed information concerning the investigation procedure.

Retaliation Prohibited

Reporting violations of this policy or participating in an investigation will not reflect adversely upon an individual’s status or affect future employment. Any form of retaliation against an individual who reports violations or participates in an investigation is strictly prohibited by the Illinois Human Rights Act, the Illinois State Officials and Employees Act, the Illinois Whistleblower Act, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and library policy. Any individual who retaliates against another for exercising their rights under this policy shall be subject to discipline, up to and including termination.

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