A device and method for simultaneously manipulating multiple data storage
cartridges or other storage elements in a storage library. The device
housing includes an opening for receiving data storage cartridges. A
gripping mechanism extends from the opening. The gripping mechanism is
adapted to grip a data storage cartridge to be retrieved and to urge the
data storage cartridge into the opening. One or more transport mechanisms
are attached to one or more inner walls of the housing. The transport
mechanisms are adapted such that once a data storage cartridge moves into
the opening, the transport mechanisms will urge the data storage
cartridge further into the opening until the data storage cartridge is
held within the housing. The data storage cartridge can be moved further
into the housing such that the gripping mechanism is free to collect
additional cartridges.