[LM_NET] book purchase dilemma

[John Wolfgang <wolfgang@TELEPORT.COM>]

I need some advice regarding book purchases that I am considering.
My teachers (K-5) will have a new reading adoption this year which will be core 
reading curriculum for the next 6 years (Houghton Mifflin).  HM supplies a 
bibliography of picture books
that relate to the units to be taught and I am thrilled that my staff not
only wants me to add these books to our collection, but I am confident they
will use them.  However, many of the books have an older copyright date than
most of the books I would normally consider for purchase.  I think it will set
my collection age back a bit, but I am OK about that if the books are utilized.
(I won $500 to spend as I wish, so that's a bonus-I'm not using my regular budget).

My question is this:  is this addition to my collection good practice?

I have noticed in most bibliographies that accompany texts, handbooks, etc.
that they often refer to older books to help supplement the teaching.  I think
that the editors/contributors can't keep up with the current market and often 
rely on "time tested" oldies.  I'm not
wanting to buy older books, but....if they serve a specific purpose in supporting 
the curriculum, then I feel like I ought to do it.

Any comments are appreciated.

John Wolfgang, LMS
Gilbert  Heights School (K-5)
David Douglas School District
Portland, Oregon
wolfgang@teleport.com

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