Lecterns are not something you can usually find at your local mall. And you may discover that your local office supply store won't have a large variety to choose from--if they carry them at all. There are, however, other types of stores to shop for lecterns and podiums.
Office Furniture Vendor
Look for a lectern at an office furniture store. Specifically, a store that sells furniture for conference rooms and meeting rooms is likely to sell podiums and lecterns. Stores like this sell full-size lecterns that stand on the floor and also lecterns meant to sit on a table or on a lectern base. If you can find a local store that sells used and refurbished office furniture, you might be able to find a used lectern.
Church Furniture Vendor
A church furniture vendor will be able to sell you a simple, elegant lectern or pulpit. They may also have models that have a built-in microphone or mic stand, or an attached light for viewing speaker's notes. Podiums and pulpits from this kind of store are likely to have the attractive look of quality furniture. They may have a variety of different kinds of wood and finishes available.
Audio-visual Supplies Store
If you need a bit of technology in your lectern, a store that sells audio-visual items such as speakers and projectors might be your best choice. Look for a podium that has a built-in speaker if you need to amplify your voice, or a platform for your laptop if you use a computer when you speak. Some lecterns have built-in power outlets, microphone stands and connections to the projector or to a computer network. Many lecterns like this also have wheels on them for portability.
Online Retailers
Unless you have a large office furniture store near you, you may find that your best chance for a large selection is to choose an Internet retailer. You will get a large selection of choices from various online vendors, but you will forfeit the option to actually stand behind the lectern before you choose. Make sure you measure accurately and take note of the measurements provided in the item description to ensure you get a lectern that is the size you need.
