Paper supply apparatus and image forming apparatus equipped with the same

A paper supply apparatus for conveying paper to an image forming apparatus, comprising:

• a paper accommodating unit configured to accommodate the paper and to be drawn out from an accommodating space defined in a main body of the image forming apparatus;
• a handle configured to rotate about an axis extending in a width direction of the paper accommodated in the paper accommodating unit, the handle including a first edge which moves toward the paper accommodating unit in accordance with the rotation of the handle and a second edge which opposes the first edge;
• a linking mechanism on the first edge of the handle, the linking mechanism including a hook in the paper accommodating unit, the hook being configured to move in the width direction of the paper and engage with one surface defining the accommodating space of the main body, an elastic member configured to bias the hook toward the one surface defining the accommodating space, the linking mechanism being configured to release engagement with the main body when the first edge moves toward the paper accommodating unit;
• and
• a flapping member on the second edge of the handle, the flapping member defining a point where a force acts so as to move the first edge toward the paper accommodating unit.