Aside from some really corrosive acid, is there any substance that seems more destructive in its effects than spilled coffee?

No, in fact, coffee is proven to be the most destructive substance on planet Earth when spilled. It assumes the characteristics of some sort of supernatural entity run amuck when unleashed, no matter how much of it actually escapes its container.

Why is it that coffee seems to be attracted to white paper like a magnetic force?

Like a shark attracted to blood, coffee seems to feel the need to be absorbed by paper of all things. Regardless of where you spill it, chances are it will find paper to stain, and it won't be something harmless like an old newspaper. No, it will find a book. It will turn its pages a darker shade of brown and a warped shape that resembles some form of radio wave.

Is there anything I can do to prevent coffee from spilling on my books?

No, there really isn't a defense against coffee spills. In fact, the more you try to prevent coffee from spilling, the greater chance your coffee will adapt to the drastic measures you are adopting. It's an unstoppable force that will never be stopped in our times.