Why do we not touch papers, books and people with the feet?

To Indians, knowledge is sacred and divine. So it must be given respectat all times. Nowadays we separate subjects as sacred and secular. Butin ancient India every subject - academic or spiritual - was considereddivine and taught by the guru in the gurukula.The custom of not stepping on educational tools is a frequent reminderof the high position accorded to knowledge in Indian culture. From anearly age, this wisdom fosters in us a deep reverence for books andeducation. This is also the reason why we worship books, vehicles andinstruments once a year on Saraswathi Pooja or Ayudha Pooja day,dedicated to the Goddess of Learning. In fact, each day before startingour studies, we pray: "Saraswati namasthubhyam Varade kaama roopini Vidyaarambham karishyaami Sidhirbhavatu me sadaa " O Goddess Saraswati, the giver of Boons and fulfiller of wishes, Iprostrate to You before starting my studies. May you always fulfill me?