Abstract: A handheld reader for reading optical information such as a bar code contains a reading sensor. An image of the optical information is imaged by light reflected from the optical information, via a reflecting mirror, a lens and a diaphram member, onto the reading sensor so that the image is converted into an electric signal. A pair of LEDs are disposed on both sides of the image sensor so that the images thereof are imaged near the optical information by light from the LEDs through the diaphram member, the lens and the reflecting mirror. The LEDs and reading sensor are controlled so that the LEDs are disabled from emitting light while the reading sensor performs the reading operation of the optical information. Instead of LEDs, optical fibers can be used.