Weasley's finances (was: Re: Harry Helping Ron Financially?)

[jelly92784]

No: HPFGUIDX 142942

Foodiedb:
I was wondering why Harry doesn't offer to financially help Ron and
family?

Janelle: I've often wondered about the Weasley's financial situation-
but not in the sense of why Harry doesn't help them.  The seemingly
easy answer for this is that their pride would not allow them to
accept money from Harry.  Harry does, as has been pointed out, help in
small ways when he can: the dress robes for Ron, the prize money to
Fred and George, and in Chamber when he wins all of Lockhart's books
he gives them to Ginny and buys his own.  This brings me to what it is
that I often wonder about and that is school books.  Chamber is where
this is most pertinent, as here we have a scene in the book store. 
Fred makes a comment about five sets of Lockhart books not coming
cheap.  but why do they have to buy five sets?  can't they share?  And
why do they need to buy Ginny second-hand first-year books?  Can't she
just use Ron's?  Or those of one of the brothers who has left school
already?  I understand that some books, such as those for potions,
students need to keep and consult throughout their schooling, but what
about the standard book of spells?  They get a new one each year,
couldn't Ginny use a copy belonging to one of her six brothers?  Thoughts?