Hello Michele,
I would be concerned too if my iPod was not recognized by iTunes. I found a few resources that I think might help.
First, I recommend following the steps in this article to troubleshoot the issue of your iPod not being recognized in iTunes:
iPod not recognized in iTunes and Mac desktop
http://support.apple.com/kb/TS1410
Once your iPod is recognized, I recommend reviewing this article for information about what content you can transfer to your computer from your iPod:
iTunes: Transferring media from your iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, or iPod
http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1209
If you do need to have your battery replaced on your iPod, you can find service options at the following link:
Service Answer Center - iPod
http://support.apple.com/kb/index?page=servicefaq&geo=United_States&product=ipod
Thank you for using Apple Support Communities.
Best,
Sheila M.