What database software should I use?

[zelda]

I want to create a database with a form that has 12 fields and a couple thousand entries, which can be used on one ~5yr old desktop computer running Windows XP.

It's been about 15 years since I used any database software, so all my knowledge on the subject is a little fuzzy. I tried downloading a trial version of MS Access 2007, but it won't let me create a file, so I can't really play with it, and I certainly am not going to spend hundreds of dollars on a piece of software that I don't know I like. (And really, all things considered, I'd rather not spend hundreds of dollars at all.)

Ideally, I'd like to find something simple (I don't need frills) but at least moderately user friendly. If it costs any significant amount of money, I'd like there to be a trial version I can actually try before shelling out the big bucks.

What is your advice?