Lectern facts for kids
A lectern is a special type of reading desk. It has a top that is slanted, which means it's tilted. Lecterns are usually placed on a stand or some other support. People use them to hold documents or books. This makes it easier to read out loud to others.
Lecterns are often used for important readings. For example, they are used for reading religious texts. They are also common during lectures, speeches, or sermons. Many lecterns can be adjusted. You can change their height and how much they tilt. This helps the person speaking stand comfortably. It also helps them make good eye contact with their audience.
What is a Lectern?
A lectern is a piece of furniture. It is designed to hold books or papers. The top surface is always angled. This angle helps people read clearly. It also makes it easier to see the audience. Lecterns are different from pulpits. A pulpit is a raised platform. It is used for preaching in churches. A lectern is just the reading stand itself.
Where Lecterns Are Used
Lecterns are found in many places. They are very common in schools and universities. Teachers and professors use them for lessons. Speakers use them at conferences. You will also see them in places of worship. Priests, ministers, and rabbis use them for readings. Even politicians use lecterns. They stand behind them when giving speeches.
History of Lecterns
The word "lectern" comes from Latin. It means "to read." Lecterns have been used for a very long time. They were important in ancient times. Scribes and scholars used them. They helped them read large, heavy books. In churches, lecterns held sacred texts. They made sure the readings were clear for everyone. Over time, their design changed. But their main purpose stayed the same. They help people read and speak publicly.
Images for kids
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Ban Ki-moon giving a lecture from a lectern
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Eagle lectern in the choir hall of Aachen cathedral with a bat cast in 1874 in Stolberg. The bat on the eagle's back serves to stabilize the damaged lectern.
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Marble lectern in the Pisa Baptistery, Italy
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