A laser scanner system (20) for producing and projecting a multi-line scanning pattern (32) into a space (30) in which a bar code is to be brought. The system (20) includes plural modular laser scanners (100), each producing a line scan pattern, but mounted with respect to one another so that the pattern of each scanner is projected into the space (30) to conjoin to form the multi-line pattern (32). Each module (100) is arranged to receive light reflected off the object to convert that light into electrical output signals indicative of the bars and spaces of the code. The system also includes means (126) for decoding the output signals and for providing the decoded signals to some peripheral device, e.g., an electronic cash register or computer. In one embodiment the scanner is located adjacent a conveyor (24) carrying bar coded items (26) to form an automated check-out counter.