The latest Windows Media Player appears to be Mediea Player 11.

There have been frequent updates, and some "media" sites that provide content for the player frequently urge you to update. The latest that I've received a "persuasive" update recommendation for from Microsoft was version 10.

Google shows, for Windows Media Player a number of places where you can get various recent versions, and may show you a FAQ or other site where you can find user help.

A suggestion would be that you visit the Windows Update Site (and visit it regularly if you don't get automatic updates). You may have to select "Custom Install" to see the latest Media Player offering, if it's not a "Critical Update."

In my ver 10, there's a tab a the top labelled "Library" that "hints" (says "create playlists" when you hover the mouse over it) that it may be where you'd want to get into it. The Help button in the version you're using is likely to be more help than your book, although Microsoft is noted for somewhat mediocre "help" functions.

Since there are numerous appearance options, you may need to click the button at the very top left to get out of a "special" mode, and you'll probably want to display the toolbar (View tab) for easier navigation, at least until you've created your own "personalized" setup.

Others likely will be able to give more specific advice, as I don't use anything on the internet that requires paying money, except when I get desparate, so I don't "explore" pay per play and other options pushed by media programs much.

John