PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To detect that a read means has reached a read position by a single sensor, in an image reader capable of reading images by both flat head and sheet through systems. SOLUTION: The image reader includes a movable read means 34 for reading images and a single detection means 32 for detecting a means 41 to be detected provided in the read means 34 for the position control of the read means 34, wherein a read position and a standby position are set in the order from one end side of the moving area of the read means 34, and the read means 34 is controlled so as to stand still at the read position and perform read when reading a moving original. The means 41 to be detected includes a first zone for outputting a first signal from the detection means when the read means 34 is positioned at the standby position, a second zone for outputting the first signal from the detection means 32 when the read means 34 is positioned at the read position, and a third zone positioned between the first zone and the second zone, for outputting a second signal from the detection means 32. COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT