Two things it could be off the top of my head.
It is either(more likely) your TPMS going off telling you one or more tires has abnormal pressure(low or high). So check all your tires and make sure the pressure is correct. I usually go with 36lb's when cold, but everyone likes a different number. If it looks similar to this -
http://www.abcauto.com/images/messag...splay18748.jpg - then its your TPMS.
It could also be that your e-brake is on. Make sure it is pushed down all the way, if the light is still on then maybe a sensor is broken. If it looks similar to this -
http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images...rningligh.jpg/ - then chances are it is your e-brake in some way.
Also its very possible they do not have the book for the car. I bought a 2009 car in 2010 with 18k miles on it and the previous owner stole the book.