A light reflector covers a linear light source that is disposed adjacent to a light incident end face of a light conducting plate. The interval between the end portions of the light reflector adjacent to the light incident end face of the light conducting plate is made smaller than the thickness of the light incident end face. Alternatively, the light-exit-side portion of the light reflector located between the linear light source and the light incident end face of the light conducting plate is disposed within the thickness of the light incident end face.