e-Bulletin for Parents - 7 July 2023

Five Practical Tactics for Purchasing Textbooks for the New School Year

Curriculum Resources Section

As summer vacation approaches, parents probably have started preparing for the purchase of textbooks for their children for the new school year. As such, the Education Bureau (EDB) has prepared five practical tactics to help parents understand the key points and information of purchasing textbooks. These tactics will reduce their burden and instead of rushing about, enable them to relax and stay with their children joyfully for the start of a new school year.

Tactic 1: Buy Early, No Worries

Generally speaking, bookstores have more stock of textbooks in July. Parents should go to bookstores to purchase or reserve textbooks as soon as possible after receiving the school textbook list. They can also check with the school to see whether a bulk order for textbooks can be placed with the publisher on their behalf.

Tactic 2: Buy Wisely and Use Wisely

Pay attention to the information on the school textbook list such as textbook titles, editions, publisher’s names to avoid incorrect purchase. Textbooks that are “Reprinted” or “Reprinted with Minor Amendments” are not “Revised” textbooks. Parents may consider using second-hand textbooks, but should check carefully the applicable edition listed on the school textbook list. Using second-hand textbooks is environmentally friendly and also saves money.

Tactic 3: Remember the Learning Materials for Second-hand Textbooks

Students who use second-hand textbooks may need to buy the relevant learning materials, such as workbooks or worksheets. If the learning materials are out of stock, parents can place an order with the bookstores or publishers, or to check whether the schools can order such materials collectively on their behalf.

Tactic 4: Get to Know Textbook Supply Information

Before purchasing textbooks at the bookstores, parents could learn about the textbook supply information and the expected publication date, by browsing the “Textbook Information” webpage of the EDB Curriculum Development Institute (https://www.edb.gov.hk/en/curriculum-development/resource-support/textbook-info/index.html) . They can also inquire about the actual supply situation of individual textbooks with bookstores or publishers concerned.

“Textbook Information” webpage

Tactic 5: Tips for Purchasing Textbooks

Parents could refer to the EDB’s “Tips for Purchasing Textbooks” e-leaflet (Chinese version / English verion) to learn about the points to note for purchasing new textbooks or using second-hand textbooks.

Chinese version

English version

If there are any enquiries or doubts about purchasing textbooks, parents could call the “Textbook Information Hotline” at 3698 3947 to contact the Curriculum Resources Section.