I messed up early in the game, and lost the two books given me at the College, with the result that I have no clue where to look for the scroll that starts a string of quests. Is there any way to re obtain the books or get a "cheat" that will point me in the direction of the scroll?

VERY far north (DUE NORTH) of Winterhold, you will find a small "hideout". The person inside can point you in the right direction.

You know there is this really awesome place called the spoiler section. You might want to pay it a visit some time...

This IS the spoiler section - and the original post was IN the spoiler section when I replied to it. I know this for a fact since I can't be arsed to read anywhere else in these fora - ESPECIALLY general.

Lol, QFT.

Also, I think you can simply talk to Urag in the Arcaneum about the content or author of the book(s), and he'll tell you about him.

urag only tells you once, difficult guy to talk to.

Thanks people.. and Lydiasmate.. you are not wrong, I have tried a few times, ignorant old git...LOL.