How do I seek good character, guidance, and noble manners in the absence of a teacher, and are there references or books from which I can learn?

The best guidance and conduct is that which the Prophet, may Allah's prayers and peace be upon him, followed. This can be found in books that discuss his guidance and Sunnah, such as: "Zad al-Ma'ad fi Hady Khair al-'Ibad" by Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah.

As for good character, it can be found in books on ethics and manners, such as: "Al-Adab al-Shar'iyyah" by Ibn Muflih, "Ghida' al-Albab Sharh Manzumat al-Adab" by Al-Saffarini, "Al-Akhlaq wa al-Siyar" by Ibn Hazm, and "Adab al-Dunya wa al-Din" by Al-Mawardi. Among contemporary books is "Khuluq al-Muslim" by Sheikh Muhammad al-Ghazali.