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x Foreword Today’s librarians must be outspoken, effective communicators. Not sur- prisingly, Hilda’s examples in this book are profound yet accessible. She also recognizes that librarians crave structure, so her book is formatted in a way that makes sense to the reader. While The Art of Communication begins with “Mastering the Basics,” it soon becomes apparent that effective communication is anything but basic. Librarians should communicate from a place of knowledge, exhibit confidence and positivity, and strive toward a win-win solution for all involved. Readers are challenged to reflect deeply on their practice and to understand and articulate their “Why.” Based soundly on the American Library Association’s 12 Core Values of Librari- anship and the ALA Bill of Rights, Hilda outlines how we must structure our space effectively to communicate its welcoming and inclusive nature. What is our Mission, our Why, our Ask? Hilda does not allow us, the read- ers, to passively contemplate our role, but rather, she challenges us to be focused and proactive while taking steps to make our goals a reality. It is easy to get busy with daily responsibilities and not delve deeper into our practice, but Hilda shows us the value of intentional introspection and an ongoing commitment to elevating both ourselves and our programs. Hilda calls on us to be leaders. AASL’s vision statement echoes that decree: Every school librarian is a leader every learner has a school librarian. Leading necessitates communicating with learners, colleagues, and stakeholders, because, as former presidential speechwriter James Humes states, “the art of communication is the language of leadership.” This book provides us with actionable ways to exhibit leadership in all areas of our practice. Build your network, be visible, step outside of your comfort zone, and ensure that your messaging is effective, relevant, and aspirational, because, as Hildastates, “leaders are visionary.” Some people are born with the gift of gab, but that shouldn’t be confused with being an effective communicator constantly talking isn’t necessarily communicating. Consequently, Hilda implores us to “listen harder.” Far too often, many of us are not listening to others but are waiting to speak. I now realize that, sometimes, listening deeply and completely, without interruption, is the strongest element we can bring to a conversation. Sometimes, we need to listen more, talk less, and take more time to respond. Active listening doesn’t excuse us from having hard conversa- tions, but Hilda explains how to have them so that all participants feel valued. Our library space is another way we communicate with our visi- tors. Ultimately, librarians have to work to ensure that our communication and our space are aligned with our values.