Best books on Buddhism?

I am looking to learn more about Buddhism and specifically, Buddhist Meditation techniques. I am definitely a beginner, but I don’t need a Buddhism for Dummies type of book. In other words I didn’t just discover the word Buddhism the other day and I don’t need to be told that Buddha came from modern day India . I am interested in the Theravada and Zen forms of Buddhism. A book that delves into the different schools and beliefs is welcome too. So basically, I’m someone who has read through wikipedia (lol) and I know a Buddhist I can call on to help.

What I am not looking for (in no particular order):

1. Reasons why I should care about the environment. Not that I have anything against the environment, but I am looking for a more traditional, powerful book that focuses on the mind and meditation.

2. A Psychology book with Buddhist overtones. I am interested in Buddhism for psychological purposes (becoming patient, stronger in mind, body), but I want the good stuff.

3. A comparison of world religions.

4. A book on furniture placement.

What I am looking for (in no particular order):

1. A book that delves into meditation techniques for gaining control over the mind and body (by body I DON’T mean levitating off the ground or any New Age nonsense). A book that helps with self-instructing since I have no Buddhist centers near me.

2. A book that focuses on Theravada practices, meditation techniques, and history.

3. A book that focuses on Zen practices and meditation techniques.

4. A book that delves into the philosophy (and possibly history) of Buddhism.

5. A book that can blow my mind if I am smart enough to understand it.

Thanks to all who answer, and hopefully what I asked for made some sense to someone.
Thank you Jason, Upasakha Jason, and Coop for your ’serious’ answers. I will definitely check out each of your recommendations.

I checked for a local Buddhist center, but they seemed to have closed in 2007.
Thanks Sati. I am checking out Mindfulness in Plain English, Old Path White Clouds, and The Heart of Buddha’s Teachings.

Meditation For Dummies (Book and CD edition) (Paperback)

Amazon.com Review
“To tell you the truth, you can learn the basics of meditation in five minutes,” asserts Stephan Bodian, meditation instructor, psychotherapist, and former editor-in-chief of Yoga Journal. You can also study meditation for years, exploring its subtleties. Meditation for Dummies is a simple, clear introduction to the basics of meditation, including an overview of dozens of techniques, practices, and specific meditations, plus direction for going deeper. You g (more…)