Abstract: A paper feed apparatus including a pair of side frames connected together so as to face one another with a predetermined gap therebetween, an endless feed belt mounted between the pair of side frames, a driving sprocket engaged with the endless feed belt and mounted between the pair of side frames at a first end thereof, and a belt receiver mounted between the pair of side frames at a second end thereof and supporting the endless feed belt. The driving sprocket and belt receiver have the endless feed belt trained thereabout with a predetermined amount of slack, such that the upper and lower runs of the belt are substantially linear. A feed belt supporter is mounted to the pair of side frames so as to contact an outer surface of and support the lower run of the endless feed belt so as to prevent the predetermined slack from gathering at the lower run of the endless feed belt.