bluerider, don't panic and go spin your wheel. If the spacing doesn't change between the pad and the rim, your wheel is probably true. You just need your brakes adjusted. Just trying pivoting them on the bolt that attaches them to the frame. Twist it a hair to center the pads around the rim and then squeeze the brake lever a few times to see if the brake stays in place. If it does, you're probably good to go. If not, take it to the LBS for adjusting because you need to get some lessons on adjusting the brakes. It is not uncommon for the brakes to go slightly askew if you're loading your bike on its side in the back of the car or something similar. Leaning your bike against something and accidentally bumping the brakes can cause it.

BUT, if the pad is against the tire get it fixed before riding it. Having the pad rubbing on the rim just means you'll wear down the pad, the rim, your energy, etc. but isn't the end of the world unless you're planning on a long, high speed decent.

One last thing: is the brake shoe still running parallel to the rim? If not, you need to do more than twist the brake on the bolt. This could put one end of the brake pad near the tire.