Research

Before spending money on books it's worth checking them out at the library to see if they contain all the information you're looking for (i.e. maps, countries you're visiting, etc.).
Some books aren't even necessary to buy; skimming and scanning through them for information to compile in a wiki will suffice and save $$.

Mission to the Toronto Public Library...

Guidebooks: I have picked up the three top travel guidebooks - Lonely Planet, Let's Go and Rough Guides. I will have to choose which one I find most suitable for my personal travel needs.
Things to look out for: Usefulness of maps, city guides, accommodations in my price range.

Visual Guides
The Europe Book: A great visual guide to Europe, sorted by country. Gives an idea of what there is to see: Landscape, History, Markeplace, People, Trademarks, Urban Scene, Natural Beauty, Cuisine, Random Facts and Essential Experiences.

The Cities Book: 200 cities of the world broken down by: Anatomy, People, Typical Citizens, Defining Experiences, Strengths, Weaknesses, Imports, Exports and Urban Myths.

Cheap/first time travel guides:
Rick Steves' Europe Through the Back Door
Rick Steves' Best of Europe
The Rough Guide: First Time Europe

Online travel blog resources:
http://www.mytripjournal.com/
http://www.travelblog.org/
http://mashable.com/2007/08/14/travel-toolbox/