The question I have is embarrassing, however I have destroyed the books and letter needed for the primary quest. I understand that I can retrieve the books again, but what about the letters? Any help is appreciated.
The letter is never actually used, it just tells you who you need to go talk to in order to get the ball rolling. If you can't remember who it was, make another character(same class+race) and read that letter.
No but you will have a hell of a time very soon if you dont have the books handy. I would suggest buying them or making the new character to read from.