No. As we state in our prayers (in Hanerot Hallalu), the Hanukkah-lamps are to publicize God's miracles and are not for regular use.
In case one did use the menorah for mundane purposes, the extra shamash-candle has been added so that technically no prohibition has been trespassed. But it's better to turn on an electric light if one wants to read or do other activities requiring light.
anything flamable
Light candles in it and say the blessings.
It is called the shamash (servant; helper).
There are no restrictions on who can light the menorah. Anyone can, as long as they're able to light candles.
The shamash (helper or attendant) is used to light the Hanukkah menorah or hanukiyah.
a candle
There is no "higher" or "lower" way to light a menorah. There is only the proper way and numerous improper ways.
It is called the Shamash. It is used to light all of the other candles on the Menorah or Chanukiah.
There are only eight candles on the menorah; plus a ninth which is used to light the other candles.
Any candle is acceptable. Some prefer tapers made of beeswax.
The tradition is that you light the menorah after nightfall (so that the light is easily seen) and allow the candles to burn down all the way before taking it down. The exception is on erev Shabbat, when you light the menorah shortly before sunset and do not touch the menorah until nightfall the next evening (so as not to violate the Sabbath). Aside from questions of Sabbath observance, there is no tradition requiring that the menorah be displayed when it is not actually holding burning candles.
no, the menorah is lit after sundown or later. We light it in the late afternoon only on Friday.