[CALIBK12] Request advice in the purchase of new library chairs for high school students-

[Futoran, Dale]

Hello all, 
The present chairs are the old fashion wooden style with metal bars as attachments. The size of the old chairs are approximately: 17 inches floor to seat bottom , 16 inches wide, 34 inches tall. They have been in the LMC since the mid 60s. 

I will need approximately 80.  So far, I have checked Gaylord and Demco. Both charge between $160-$400 a chair.  I am looking for lower end but sturdy and nice. I would like to place four along the sides of the long library tables. I'd like the chairs to be similar in size to the old ones. The catalogs so far show chairs that are at least 18 - 20 wide. I think that may be too wide for the tables.

Price is an issue. Is there a discount house for schools?

I am uncomfortable purchasing furniture after looking at pictures in a catalog or on the Internet. i will appreciate advice from any teacher/librarian that has had previous experience in purchasing chairs.  

Thanks, Dale 
(818) 758-3646