How to add a handle

So I’m not really sure how to approach even asking this question so I’m not really sure what to search for. I don’t want someone to have to hold my hand through this, I’d just like some direction so I can figure out how to do it. Been trying and it’s been rough.

So I want to add what sort of amounts to a “handle” on the side of my site, jutting off from the content area as a little box that holds tweet this, share this on facebook, and digg buttons for each of my blog posts.

Visual representation of my idea: http://brainofmatter.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/concept.jpg

I know css and html pretty well, but php has been a bit of a struggle for me. I sort of understand how the whole thing works, but only to a point and when I’m going through and trying to edit. Building a new piece is a level above where I’m at.

Anyone have any suggestions for me?

Thanks