Can no longer hit first without reverse engaging. What is problem?

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

First will not engage unless you depress ever so slightly and move over 1/8 inch for first to engage and you have to be at a complete stop for first to engage. Reverse is ready to slide right in.  I have found 2 items; gear shift repair kit and a gear shift lever - before purchasing would these correct my problem?
I have a Haynes repair manual for Golf (will this give me adequate information to install kit and shift lever)?  Actually, only per se manual I could get from local auto store - told its comparable to Cabrio.
Thank you for your-all's input and assistance - my other issue of crank and no spark with raw gas smell - once I have shifting issue fixed, I will tackle throwing those parts to her.
**Amused with all the other posts about locked out, locked in, keys not unlocking, "social" beeps. - been there, she corrected herself.  As a female I can say, I love my Cabrio (brat basket). These cars are definitely very moody always want to be touched and worked on, but when they are on a good day they are an awesome car!  Sad VW won't make more. Still have my faithful truck old Goliath - while my "Betty-Beep" throws ADD fit.  jokling7