Where is the information on how to input and export data from DataBase

Binary package hint: openoffice.org

I can find no information that describes how to automated importing large amounts of data into and export data in any format other that PDF from DataBase. Now I would like to add large amounts of data into an existing table but I do not want to enter thousands of fields at a time. How about Find (a blank) and Replace (with a default). I know there is such a thing as SQL. that provides scripting of sorts for automating data. How do I get it, install it, integrate it, and use it with DataBase, or what other tools work to make Database useable. I have managed to to get data from spreadsheets into DataBase, and I have written reports and queries, but if there is no way to add or manipulate the data more than one field at a time (no automated data manipulation) I don't see the value as more than a glorified report writer. I am certain that smart guys have figured out how to use data manipulation programs like SQL but it would be useful if you explained how to do that in help, on the web, or anywhere making the product useful. I am a linux user and will look for alternate Database applications that allow or at least explain autmating data manipulation, but I still have the task of having to get out the tables, queres, and reports as useful data (spreadsheets, csv;s or whatever) so I can use it a platform that does more than writes PDF files. Can you tell me how to get the data out, OH, and can put it in the help so people do not have to spend hours upon hours wasting time.

ProblemType: Bug
Architecture: i386
DistroRelease: Ubuntu 9.04
Package: openoffice.org-core 1:3.0.1-9ubuntu3
ProcEnviron:
 PATH=(custom, user)
 LANG=en_US.UTF-8
 SHELL=/bin/bash
SourcePackage: openoffice.org
Uname: Linux 2.6.27-11-server i686