True - but I was talking about MySQL.
I find that to be a whole different thing that needs to be learned completely separately
No argument there.
For the application the OP desscibed, there really would be nothing wrong with using D-Base (Fox-Base).
True. If he happens to have a copy available, or can get one somewhere, that's great. Otherwise, he'll need to go purchase it - unless it's available as freeware somewhere. On the other hand, he could go to Tucows and see what they have available.
MySQL is freeware, unless you want corporate help desk support, then you buy it.
Fair enough. I know nothing about it.
Some years back, I developed a database in something called DataFlex, which could be used with SQL. The later editions went to a using a graphical interface which I never took the time to learn how to program. Looked nice on the screen, but it didn't do the job any better. Too confusing for this kid.