Ripping CD's

I have many CD's. Would like to copy(rip) my favorite songs from each onto  separate CD's. Create a library on each disc. I know that doing that is illegal if intended for sale but that's not my goal. Just for personal use. Two basic questions.........

1) Is there a certain brand/type of CD media best for music or will any CD  do?

2) What is a good CD burning program (preferably free) to use other than Nero and other generic programs?

Thanks for any suggestions. There are several options with things like streaming but this is my intent now.