This discussion of effective communication for leaders in the field of librarianship begins by providing a historical overview which highlights the librarian's influential role from the earliest days of recorded language; the evolution and modification of words in individual languages from crude forms to their electronic storage and transmission; and contributions of library leaders from the sixth century B.C. to more modern times. Focusing on communication, the second of four sections discusses networking for success, including personal, organizational, and electronic networking. The third section presents a model, or case, which stresses the importance of communication and explains how a change of language has brought about a whole new life for one specific academic library, both on and off campus. A discussion of the need for cooperation and sharing between the traditional and public service areas and outreach to campus or community organizations concludes the paper. (21 references) (CGD)