in reply to MySQL basics

If you have never used a database, you have a lot to read.

About the databae itself, before starting to write programs, make yourself comfortable with SQL in general with this SQL tutorial and then, more specifically for MySQL, their tutorial on the database usage.

If by then you are still willing, then have a look at the database section in out Tutorials.

Start with Reading from a database and Tricks with DBI, and then continue with The fine art of database programming.

You will be ready to get your hands dirty then, and maybe you'll come back here asking for more. Then, don't miss Before asking a database related question ....

More places where you can find information on database programming are :

Or you may want to start with a book.