I've found county extension services to be very friendly and helpful. Your taxes have paid for that service so I recommend using it.
For starters, if you are willing to take those folks a soil sample they will know you are serious about gardening. This soil structure sample is very simple to obtain. In 4-6 areas take soil at a depth just below any root growth and put in a jar of water. Shake the contents vigorously for a few minutes then allow it to sit for 12-24 hours.
For soil nutrients I do my own with a purchased kit but you may like for those professionals to accomplish that.