One of the most important decisions speech communication basic course directors make is the selection of the textbook. The first consideration in their choice of text should be whether or not the proposed text covers the units integral to the course. A second consideration should be whether or not the text covers the special topics integral to the course. Directors should also keep in mind that textbooks are written for and read by two different audiences: those who teach and those who are taught. What appeals to or impresses the first group does not always appeal to or impress the second group. Also, directors should consider who will be teaching the course: will it be seasoned faculty who will expect and demand some latitude in how they do things or inexperienced graduate students who need considerable guidance. While ancillary packages are provided with many textbooks today--packages that contain teaching aids such as manuals, test banks, computer software, video tapes, and discs--directors should remember that these services perhaps benefit the instructor more than the students; they also drive the price of the textbook up. Finally, directors should be aware that there are other options available today besides the major textbooks on the market; many publishers will help faculty produce their own custom-made textbooks. (Contains 24 references.) (TB)