Bill,
Welcome to the hobby! The National organization is the Casino Chips & Gaming Tokens Collectors Club. You can print out an application by clicking the link below. There are a number of books available, but, if you collect any Nevada chips then you will want to get "The Chip Rack" which you can order from the second link below. There is also the "Casino Chip Price Guide" & a new book for Limited Edition chips is out called the "Chipstar". You have made a good start by checking out this Board & posting a message! You'll find a lot of information here along with a great bunch of people. You might also have a local Chapter of the Club in your area. Where are you located? Andy - Las Vegas

http://www.swiftsite.com/NevadaCasinoChips/cc_gtccapplication.htm

http://www.swiftsite.com/NevadaCasinoChips/chip_rack.htm