Resin coated paper, Ilford is ideal. Check the net for deals, although I notice that retrophotographic do a great deal on Kentmere RC paper
Public darkrooms (or at least mine in Edinburgh) tend to have chemicals on site. Try them out as it is cheaper and perhaps part of the hire? I try and make sure I mix up my own chemicals as by their nature 'public' darkroom chemical use can be a bit iffy - sloppy practice, people putting the worng chemicals in the worng container, exhausted developers/fixers. The paper chemical ranges are pretty narrow compared to film developers so I'd suggest sticking with Ilford range as they are readily available and standard for most darkrooms so stick to one system.
Other essentials (if they are not there): focus finder, scissors, dark A4 card, a good easel, timer, lots of hand towels, A4 paper and pencil to scribble down procedures, something to carry your prints home in.
The first few times (and even thereafter!) can result in mistakes so just get into it and be prepared for failures, forgetfulness, fear, etc, and enjoy the magic of seeing the image appear on the paper. I love it everytime.
