For the basics of fly tying, I think Eric Leiser's book, "The Complete Book of Fly Tying" is hands down the most useful. Dick Telleur's book for intermediate skill tyers, the name of which escapes me, is also very good. I think Wentink's book is good, but would not be my first choice.
As far as equipment is concerned, buy the best vice you can afford. A rotating -- not necessarily a trye rotary -- feature is very useful. At the low end are the Thompson vices. The main downside to Thompson's is that the range of hook sizes a particular set of jaws will hold is limited. The Regal has excellent holding power -- cost is about $130 for a clamp model and $175 for pedestal base model. Personally, I like the pedestal base. For about $180 you can buy one Renzetti's "Saltwater Traveler" model rotary vice. This is a new model. I have used the more expensive Renzetti "Presentation" model ($320) and like it very much. The Dyna-King Baracuda ($300) is supposed to be excellent, but I have never used one.
As for tools, a Matarelli whip finisher, a couple of Griffin ceramic bobbins, two pair of good scissors (one serrated one fine), a bodkin and a hackle pliers, and you can start tying.
If you are conveniently located to New Boston, NH, try Hunter's. They will have everything you need, including an excellent selection of high grade fly tying material.
Go for it! Its fun and, as others have said, there is nothing like catching a fish on a fly you tied yourself.