An automated data storage library provides for reducing inventory after media access. Media is moved, inserted, or removed without opening the access door normally associated with accessed media. A media status of a data storage drive within the automated data storage library is checked. An unexpected condition is detected at the data storage drive. An inventory of at least part of the library is performed for the unexpected condition. Alternately, a move operation is initiated for a data storage media wherein an unexpected condition is detected at the source and/or target location of the move operation. An inventory of at least part of the library is performed for the unexpected condition. In either embodiment, the unexpected condition includes a state of the automated data storage library which is inconsistent with a library database, such as a presence or absence of a data storage media in the location, or a data storage media in the location having an identifier which is inconsistent with the library database. The automated data storage library is brought back on-line after performing the inventory.