<p>An automatic paper feeder comprises: a pick roller (3) for picking out paper (1) accommodated in a paper cassette (2); a separation roller (4) to which a torque limiter (14) is connected, and which separates the paper (1) picked out by the pick roller (3) to feed the paper (1) one sheet at a time; means for moving the separation roller (4) into contact with or away from the pick roller (3); a lifter (6) for lifting the paper (1) accommodated in the paper cassette (2) to cause the paper (1) to be moved into contact with or away from the pick roller (3); and means for driving the lifter. The means for moving the separation roller (4) into contact with or away from the pick roller (3) and the means for driving the lifter (6) are realized by a single driving means. <IMAGE></p>
