Off The Shelf discussion

1) Be a good sport - keep an open mind and at least attempt to read the monthly book selections. If you can't get through it, be a part of the discussion as to why.
2) Play Nice - keep your comments civil and do not make personal attacks (flaming)
3) Think Outside the Box - be tolerant of others' views and preferences, be willing to read books outside your comfort zone or favorite genre, and consider discussions in the larger scope of the world
4) Enjoy Yourself - take delight in the written word and the keen minds of your fellow readers!

I received two items via a Moderators Group that I wanted to pass along to the membership (yes, there is a group for moderators of a group...). This will help to clarify our rules and standards of etiquette for our interaction here.

A moderator's job includes some of the more unpleasant aspects of monitoring a group of total strangers. As the moderator, and in some ways, protector of this group, there are times when decisive or preemptive measures need to be taken.

On occasion, a person seeks to join a group for the express purpose of using it for lewd and inappropriate contact (suggestive emails, unwelcome photos, etc). When this is brought to my attention - either by fellow members, or via Moderator-to-Moderator communication, I will not hesitate to ban the person from the group and block them from ever joining in the future. I believe this is in the best interests of the people who are here to simply enjoy reading. If the ejected person feels that they are being prematurely judged, that is too bad. They will have to find another group that has the time and inclination to find them "innocent until proven guilty". We are too busy reading, to wait and see if they are going to behave themselves.

Secondly, there have been a number of incidences on Goodreads groups where members have personally attacked one another in posts, called "flaming". Here is the expanded definition of our Rule #2: Play Nice, copied from the Moderator Forum:

Treat other members courteously, as though you were a guest in their home.

Nobody has the right to abuse anyone verbally, to spam the forum, or make offensive remarks, including but not limited to posts that include racism, sexism, or comments derogatory to another person’s sexuality, religion, life choices, etc.

Arguments are a part of the forum experience. Opinions on this site are diverse and sometimes directly polarized. We all love reading threads where there are many opposing ideas, but any differences must be addressed with respect.

We will not tolerate when individuals go beyond these boundaries— it’s not fun to read and destroys community atmosphere. Keep the arguments restricted to books and ideas, don’t attack people.

In an internet forum, especially one in which members don't necessarily always know each other face-to-face, it's hard to make others see your point. The goal of the discussion is to make a point and respect others' opinions even if they differ.
For example, there should be no name-calling or personal attacks. It's fine to say your argument is stupid, its not fine to say you are stupid.

Be mindful of your language. Obscene language and profanity are not conducive to good discussions. Also, keep in mind that phrases, tones of voice, sarcasm, and the like do not generally translate well to text. Things may read as offensive to some, that were not intended that way.
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I hope that these updates will assist everyone in contributing positively to the discussions. When everyone speaks respectfully, the group remains inviting for all kinds of opinions and views. Thank you for your cooperation and support in making this a great group!