Welcome, it's good to see you here.

I agree with what's been said so far. Have the bow checked out and make sure it isn't ready to explode and that the tips aren't twisted. If you havn't already done so, put a new string on the bow. Dacron B50 is probably the way to go with the older recurve. Start your nockpoint at about 3/8" above and start the brace height around 7 1/2" from the deepest part of the grip. You'll need either a glove or a tab if you plan on using your fingers on the string. An arm guard is recommended just in case. The arrows you shoot are depending on your draw length and the actual weight of the bow at your draw. But to start flingin arrows, almost any arrow will do. I started with 2315 aluminums with a 50# recurve. They didn't fly too good but at 15', it really didn't make much difference. Yep, read a book or two. Byrons book is good from what I hear and Asbels book has been recommended quite a bit. I just ordered it and havn't read it yet but I hear it's good. Once you're armed with info from the pros, your practice will start to take on new meaning. At first you will be concentrating on building your strength so you can comfortably hold the full draw weight at anchor. Concentrate on your form, a steady bow arm and a consistently smooth release. You will need these things to be consistent in order to be consistently accurate. Even with sites if that is how you choose to go. As far as shooting off the shelf, I do on my bows now but my first recurve has a cheap plastic elevated rest and it worked good. However, from what I've read, it is recommended to get the arrow as close as possible to the bowhand. Above all, have fun. That's what it's supposed to be about.