First impressions and questions about anarchist ideas/tactics

Hi, I have recently become interested in anarchist/libertarian ideas after coming across noam chomsky on youtube.

I would like to discuss some of my views on the anarchist movement and tactics as someone who has until recently seen it from a view more informed by mainstream media.

I would also welcome suggestions for reading material for both the theory and practice of libertarian ideas.

1) My first question is how far do you think carrying out direct action using the protection of say a pacifist trade union march constitutes vanguardism? In my view it seems undemocratic as it is going against the stated aim of the march and I would see it as highjacking someone elses protest. In my view you should only attend a protest where there is mutual agreement on what you are protesting and you are in agreement upon which tactics are suitable.

2) Is it worth trying to gain mainstream media attention through direct action? The first time I heard of anarchism was on the news after some banks windows had been smashed. Asked my Dad about it he said they smashed the windows because they hate the banks for being bastards and they think we should have no government or organization. People used to vandalize things for fun where I grew and thought that they were probably just doing that, and associated anarchy with a war torn country full of rival militias rather than a decentralized egalitarian community.

My point being whilst these acts may gain sympathy from people who are against banks they do nothing to challange popular misconceptions of anarchist ideas and help build support for crackdown on protests by police.

3)How do people draw the line between not helping those who hold illegitamate power eg bosses banks, and wanting to remain part of the community, living a reasonably comfortable life? I no theres no definitive answer just looking for opinions.

4) On a more positive note an example of what I considered an effective action. In deptford a group squated a disused jobcentre (due to be turned into another bookies) and opened it to public use offering services to the community for free. Although they were evicted eventually and as far as I am aware didn't gain any mainstream attention this seemed like a great idea as it put anarchists on the moral high ground and makes a clear improvement to the local community.

Thanks in advance to anyone who takes the time to discuss any of these matters with me