oh, and go to the library or a big book seller and look for "chapman's". it's kind of the bible for all things nautical. check it out of the library and when funds ease up you might find an older copy to buy - these things don't change all that much.

and "royce" is the book about sailing. you can teach yourself.

or find some guy or gal who's sailed before and will trade a ride in your boat for educating you about sailing in the process. lots of them out there. you'll find 'em. especially if they know you're a rookie!