An image reading apparatus according to the invention includes a transparent member on which an original document is placed, a reading unit arranged below the transparent member, the reading unit being movable reciprocally in a reading direction of the original document, a spacer member arranged at the reading unit for maintaining a prescribed interval between the transparent member and the reading unit by contacting to the transparent member, and an electrostatic removing member arranged at a position close to the spacer member when the reading unit is positioned at a prescribed position.