I have written a series of short stories. I have some questions for the initiated

1- Should I try to find a literary agent?
If yes, - what do they usually charge?
- how do I choose?
- where do I look?
2- If a short story should be published by a publisher,
- what are the terms generally (ie. as a writer, what should I ask or expect?)
3 - Is there a list somewhere of the larger publishers a writer can submit to directly (rather than going through an agent)?
4 -My stories would also be candidates for illustrations. Is that something a publisher can assist with?
5 - Is it good etiquette to submit a letter of inquiry via a link to a web page through email? Or should one snail mail those?
Experiences from published writers, suggestions, etc would be appreciated.
I am sure that the above information will also help a lot of other writers. Thank you.