craftgrrl | scrapbook, memory boxes, etc

I've really been getting into scrap booking/ saving memory type things.. so anyway, 1st question: what do you recommend for really good scrap booking idea books/web sites..supplies.. I'm somewhat of a beginner and I'm only 17..funds are somewhat limited. ive found all the supplies to be so expensive =/. Is there a better place to get cheaper supplies?

I've been going through boxes of old things my mom kept from when my sister, brother and I were in elementary school.. things like report cards, books we made, drawings, awards..etc. I was first thinking id organize them into groups..so I spent a long time making separate piles for each of us and then I was thinking about putting the things into a scrapbook or something, although I don't want to change the pieces in any way..so I figured id have to put them in clear plastic or something.. then I thought that not might not be a good idea because it would be just like showcasing the stuff and it would be better if they were kept in some type of box..like a little box of old memories/treasures..any opinions on this? other ideas?..what type of box should I make? should I do anything with the pieces so they last longer. id rather keep them like they are..but im sure theres things you can to make them last longer that I don't know about?

lastly.. I have boxes of old pictures and old photo albums that pictures are falling out of and pages are turning brown.. so should I just re put them all into new photo albums.. are there certain ones that are better than others? where can I buy good ones or ones that aren't too expensive?

thanks