[Lisa~]

I think the ideal situation is to learn from a quality trainer, but they're hard to find, especially at a YMCA. I work at the Y, but I still know that is a true statement. Karla worked hard to find someone qualified. If you're willing to ask about certifications and ask for recommendations until you find someone worth listening to, then I hope you'll begin with a trainer. Ask who can really teach a squat and deadlift. Tell them you want to learn a front squat to push press and a one-arm DB snatch. Which trainer can teach them? Like Amblus experienced, some trainers can't/won't teach the big compound lifts or the more technical lifts (sad but true).

Plan B is what rixatrix said. (Great post btw.) There's a lot of good information here that will at least get you started.