Multifocal holographic scanning system

A holographic scanning system for scanning bar code indicia is disclosed in which the light beam of a laser is directed to a first set of holograms located on a single rotating disc in which each hologram will generate an individual scan beam having a slightly different focal length and direction angle from that of the other holograms. The generated scanning beams are directed on a target area through which passes a label or object bearing a bar code indicia. Each of the scan beams is projected in an overlapping relationship on the target area, thereby providing an enhanced depth of focus enabling a more effective reading operation. The light reflected from the bar code indicia is picked up by a second set of holograms mounted on the rotating disc and focused at a point at which is located an optical detector for use in reading the bar code.