Hello merlynbc. I understand your computer contains registry issues. I will answer both of your questions, before anything else.
The first question: "can I take the HD out and connect it to a desktop so I can get the files I want?" - Technically, you can try this. Please ensure the hard drive is compatible with the computer. I can't guarantee this will work.
The second question: "how can I get a copy of the Win7 discs" - This document explains how to obtain these discs, better than I could: http://h10025.www1.hp.com/ewfrf/wc/document?cc=us&lc=en&docname=bph07143
Now, I will review the latest issue: "after attempting to backup my files with HP Recovery Manager I get a fail code FFFFFF14" - This appears to indicate that the registry is corrupt. However, I can't help but wonder whether or not hardware issues exist. I would like you to test the hardware on the computer. Please perform all of the diagnostics, by following this HP document: http://h10025.www1.hp.com/ewfrf/wc/document?cc=us&lc=en&docname=c01443317
Please respond at your earliest convenience. Provide the results of the troubleshooting and any additional information or thoughts. I'm only here to help!
Mario