Question: Can anyone point me to a tutorial for electronic noobs that 
explains how to use op-amps and what I can do with them, besides
amplification?

Answer: 
Try [Opamps for Everyone](http://focus.ti.com/lit/an/slod006b/slod006b.pdf) (warning -- large pdf, and some TI bias)

It has lots to teach, covers beginning to somewhat advanced topics, and it's free.
The "IC Opamp Cookbook" paperback was ~THE~ standard for hobbyist electronics back in the 80s. Still a good reference.