There have been various LEGO history books produced over the years in various languages.
If you want ENGLISH language reference, here are some:
a brand new Lego History CD has just been released. It covers everthing up to the year 1980
http://news.lugnet.com/announce/?n=3370
Here are some samples from the CD:
http://geminisystems.net/lego/
One of the best reference books ever published is called "The World of LEGO Toys" and many public libraries in the USA actually have this book on the shelf for you to borrow and is occasional available for purchase online at BrickLink and Ebay. It was written in 1987, so it only covers stuff up to that point in time
Hardcover -- http://www.bricklink.com/catalogItem.asp?B=205
Softcover -- http://www.bricklink.com/catalogItem.asp?B=204
"The Ultimate LEGO Book" is also pretty easily available for purchase. May also be in public libraries for borrowing and in local book stores for sale (in the USA):
http://www.bricklink.com/catalogItem.asp?B=B500
BUY.COM has the book available for purchase now:
http://www.buy.com/retail/product.asp?sku=...97&loc=106&sp=1
"50 Years of Play"
Published by LEGO company. Exists as hardcover and as Leather-Bound edition. Originally produced for LEGO company employees, Leather-Bound edition usually autographed to the original owner.
http://www.bricklink.com/catalogItem.asp?B=b82play
Other Lego informational books and pamplets also exist. Here is BrickLink's catalog listing for books in many languages:
http://www.bricklink.com/catalogList.asp?catType=B&catID=332
__Kevin Salm__
ABP Lego Sales
http://abpbricks.com
