What Is the Function of a Lectern?

Preaching

• Lecterns are probably most commonly used, and easily recognized as part of a pulpit or preaching area. The preacher, pastor, or priest reads from holy books and sermon notes placed on the lectern. Lecterns used in this capacity are often finely-crafted, intricate or highly decorated with religious paraphernalia.

Speeches

• Public speakers all over the world use lecterns for speeches. The lectern holds speech notes, but also acts as a center of attention for the audience. Cutting off view of the speaker's lower body, drawing more attention to her face.

Teaching Aid

• Although still used in the classroom for lectures, in a similar capacity to speech and preaching lecterns, many classroom lecterns have evolved into multimedia teaching aids. In this capacity, many lecterns hold computers, analog or digital projectors, video recording equipment, microphones and multimedia controls.