A storage library for recording and retrieving information from storage media cartridges each having a label side includes a front side having an opening. Left and right slots are disposed proximate the left and right sides of the storage library for holding the storage media cartridges. The slots and the storage media cartridges are oriented so that each label side of the storage media cartridges is visible to an operator through the opening. Each of the slots are accessible to the operator via the opening for the operator to access the storage media cartridges being held by the slots. A media drive is disposed proximate the back side of the storage library and is operative to receive a storage media cartridge through a port. A robotic mechanism is disposed between the slots and is operative to move the storage media cartridges between the slots and the media drive.