Abstract: An illuminator for an alpha-numeric/graphic information board is adapted to be disposed in front of the information. An array of light sources directly illuminates an edge of the lens and a plurality of grooves arranged in a front face of the lens disperses the light received from the array onto the information. This reduces the possibility of reflection of light from the illuminator toward the observer and does not significantly increase the overall thickness of the board. A transparent cover disposed against te front face of the lens protects the lens from dirt, debris, scratches, nicks and other damage and is easily cleaned and inexpensive to replace. Masking strips disposed on the rear face of the cover coincide with the grooves to block light from being dispersed away from the information and to emphasize or frame the information being illuminated to the observer.