lectern

A lectern is a stand or small desk used by a speaker to hold notes, a manuscript, or a tablet at a comfortable reading angle. It typically has a sloped top surface with a lip to keep papers from sliding, and may include a vertical panel to house a microphone or hide wiring. Lecterns can be freestanding or integrated into a larger podium structure, and they come in a range of materials, including wood, metal, and composites.

A lectern is distinct from a podium, which is a raised platform on which a speaker stands. A lectern provides a personal speaking surface, while a podium refers to the entire raised stage area. Many lecterns are adjustable in height, and some are designed for accessibility to accommodate users in wheelchairs or at different table heights. Some models include built-in microphones, speakers, or cable management to support audio and presentation equipment.

Used in religious services, classrooms, lecture halls, conference rooms, and tribunals, lecterns support reading, presentation, and reference materials. The term originates from the Latin or French root related to reading or speaking, reflecting its role as a stand for speakers to read from.