I just finished one of my favorite tasks as a school library media specialist, purchasing new titles. It's also extremely frustrating because I want every good book, and unfortunately my budget does not allow that.
Purchasing new books is a delicate juggling act. I try to balance the student's wishes for fun fiction with award winners and great literature. The curriculum needs must also be met with books available for research and class purposes. It doesn't help that book prices have skyrocketed. My history teachers need books on ancient civilizations and decades throughout American history. The average price of these books is $35 each. Ouch! Fiction prices have greatly increased too, thanks to the phenomenal success of Harry Potter at $29.95. So, the lack of funds greatly decreases my spending spree. Oh well, I don't have the shelf space available for every new book anyway.
I was able to order some new graphic novels and manga titles which will help my little graphic collection immensely. Manga fans are very passionate about their favorites, and everyday I hear requests for more. I added biographies of scientists and philosophers for my science and social studies teachers, and more general fiction. My huge nonfiction order will be finished shortly. I'm searching all the best book lists for great adult fiction titles for teenagers so I can add those titles as well. Once these titles come in, they will be on display so they can be easily seen and checked out. Can't wait!
The American Library Association is announcing the 2007 award winners on Mon., Jan. 22. Visit ala.org for more info. I am hoping that the Book Thief by Marcus Zusak will win the Printz, it is an amazing book.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment