Backup files to iPod?

I want to perform a complete format and reinstall on my iBook, but I would also like to back up all of the files I need to my iPod (something I have no experience with). I thought this was basically just an issue of plugging in my iPod, creating some folders, and copying all the files over. Is it this simple? Secondly, is there any way to back-up my iTunes library as well, so that when I plug my iPod in after the fresh install, I can retain all of my songs and playlists? Thanks in advance.

no. get carbon copy cloner. you can make a bootable copy of your entire mac onto the ipod and boot from the ipod if necessary.