Ok, if you are completely new to dairy cows, I would suggest that you start by going to a few of your local farms and talking to the farmers about cows. Come up with a list of questions for them so you are prepared when you get there. This is the best way to learn about them. Book and the internet help, but you will learn more from a practicing farmer.
To find a reputable breeder or farm, start with your local farmers. Ask around as they may know someone who breeds Jerseys.
Or email/call your local Extension office or Dairy 4-H office. They are usually more than happy to help you find someone who has Jersey cows. Or you could always look up your local state veterinarian. They will know who has Jerseys plus it would be a great way to find out who your local cow Vet is.
How many are you looking to milk?
If you are starting out with one, then you need to make sure you have all the proper equipment, supplies, and housing BEFORE you get the cow.
You need a milking machine (assuming you won't be doing it by hand), vacuum pump, proper storage for the milk (filter, cooling), food-grade detergents for washing up, Iodine or another type of disinfectant for the cow for before and after milking, a proper place to tie her when you milk her, and proper grain and hay as well as bedding (just to name a few things).
If you want to start out with a whole herd (more than 1-3), then pretty much the same as above but in a much larger quantity.
Also, if you are going to be using the milk solely for you and your family, you may want to make sure you will be using enough each week so you aren't wasting too much. Whether that means drinking it raw, or using it to make cheese/butter/yogurt etc. Because raw milk, high quality, will last 7-10 in the fridge before it will go bad. It doesn't last weeks like pasteurized store milk.
And if you plan to sell raw milk or raw milk products, be sure you do the proper research to see if its allowed in your state. Some states banned it, others require you to be licensed and state inspected, others don't require anything and you can do as you please.
Hope that helps. Feel free to message me if you want.
I was born and raised on a 100 cow dairy in Maine. We sold most of our cows last fall and are now milking about 12-15 and still sell to a local dairy. I am in the process of building a new dairy barn and processing facility to set up my own farm where I make and sell my own products
