Abstract: An image reading apparatus according to the present invention employs an optical system including a fluorescent lamp as a line light source for illumination of the image source. An image reader housing has an elongated window. The translucent lamp positioned within the housing has a light emitting tube. The light emitting tube includes a middle section that is elongated in a direction parallel to the window width with a length at least equal to the maximum extent of the window width. The light emitting tube includes two boundary sections between which the middle section extends. The two boundary sections have bent ends connected to the middle section at ends thereof, respectively.

Abstract: A document reading apparatus includes a light-source assembly which can provide the reduced number of parts and the effective use of light. The light-source assembly includes a plate and a holder. The plate has a reflective surface at one side thereof and a fixing surface at the other side thereof, wherein the plate is fixed at the fixing surface such that the reflective surface is placed in a predetermined direction. The holder is provided on the reflective surface of the one side of the plate. The holder holds and fixes the light source substantially parallel to the reflective surface.

Abstract: To achieve a reduction in the cost of components and a reduction in assembly steps in a production line, the number of parts is reduced in an image reading apparatus. An image reading apparatus includes a casing which is provided with a unit to which light reflected from an original document surface is incident, a lens for converging the reflected light, an image sensor to which the reflected light which has been converged by the lens is incident, and a plurality of reflectors disposed between the light incident unit and the lens for defining an optical path for the reflected light. The reflectors are formed on the inner surface of the casing in a plurality of positions by vacuum depositing aluminum on the inner surface.