Setting up small network

My friend is doing research regarding his purchase of a small business. He knows nothing about IT and have asked me to help him. I work in IT but have never rolled out a Mac network.

I am looking to set up a network with all hardware for about 8 people.

What hardware do I need, or what would you suggest? Server, desktops, switches, etc. An Xserve might be overkill so what do you guys think about using a Mac Pro for server?

Are there any good books for setting up a Mac network?

Thanks!

There are many different ways you can share files. If you would like to keep files in a centralized location, try a NAS server connected through a router/hub.

Here are some of the other resources.
http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=106658
http://computer.howstuffworks.com/home-network.htm
heterogeneous network