2/1 Game Force by Audrey Grant and Eric Rodwell (once you have the basics of Std American down I highly recommend learning 2/1. It's almost the same and a big improvement, IMO).
25 Bridge Conventions You Should Know by Barbara Seagram and Marc Smith. (don't go crazy here. Stayman, Jacoby, weak 2, RKC Blackwood, and negative doubles will take you pretty far.)
The best way to learn is to find someone who is patient and better than you and play with them. If you play on BBO there's somethign called the Beginner's & Intermediates club. It costs $45 / year. The most valuable portion of it is that they will set you up with a mentor. I play 1x a week with a very patient, very skilled woman who gives me a lot of feedback.
I like to read, so most of my advice is book related. I learned by reading "Bridge for Dummies" by Eddie Kantar. I think it's terrific.
Other books that I've found valuable:
The best way to learn is to find someone who is patient and better than you and play with them. If you play on BBO there's somethign called the Beginner's & Intermediates club. It costs $45 / year. The most valuable portion of it is that they will set you up with a mentor. I play 1x a week with a very patient, very skilled woman who gives me a lot of feedback.