In an image reading apparatus that is capable of reading a transparent original and a reflective original, a navigation sheet (24) on which the content of transparent-original read processing has been entered and a film guide (25) holding a transparent original are placed on an original table (23), and the navigation sheet (24) is read first to recognize the content thereof. Next, a scanner carriage unit (22) is moved so that the transparent original being held by the film guide (25) is read in based upon the result of recognition of the navigation sheet (24). Since a method of reading the transparent original can be designated using the navigation sheet, it is easier to perform the reading of a transparent original using a stand-alone image reading apparatus.