One error: There is indeed an archer in the Cloakwood, but it's Coran, not Kivan. Your confusion is understandable, as it's my opinion that they used to be the same person.
Oh, another error: There is indeed a BG1 Forum, and it's still alive & well. Look under the "Ironworks Classics" heading. It's there somewhere, trust me.
I've used Garrick once, all the way through the end of the game. He sucks. But hey, he's a Bard, he can't help it. I would only drag him along if you want someone to use Wands, but don't want to take an actual Mage.
Coran and Xan should complement your party well, especially since Coran + Imoen can get ALL of your Thieving bases covered.
Take the link in my sig, and go to Appendix 1: Tables. There you will find a complete (although Spoiler-Free) listing of every single person in BG1 who can be a member of your party.
*All* of your equipment will be removed from you when you import your character into BG2. Since you cannot save the Tomes to use them in BG2, and using them on NPCs in BG1 will have no effect in BG2, there is no reason to give the Tomes to anyone but your PC.
The Golden Pantaloons will be found soon after you start BG2.
Do
not have the Claw of Kazgaroth on your person when you Import, unless you want to get screwed out of the Helm of Balduran.