Yes book apps are available on iphone, but for how much longer?
There is no reason to believe that they will automatically be available on the iPad. It's a brand new playing field and Apple has already crippled it in many significant ways. We will not know for sure what apps and controlled by whom will be available for it. Yes many newspapers are available even for free via calibre and straight to my Sony or Kindle or computer (and tablet if I should buy one)
I've never seen so many people so will to believe the hype and just follow along without even any real specs of formats, drm, restrictions, etc. I can only standby and give notice. If you want to race ahead, be my guest.