Patent ID: 8265786

Claim:
A method for operating an automated data storage library, said automated data storage library comprising at least a plurality of multi-cartridge deep slot cells, each configured to store up to a plurality of data storage cartridges arranged in sequential order of tiers from front to rear, and comprising at least one accessor configured to selectively extract, place and transport data storage cartridges with respect to said multi-cartridge deep slot cells, said method comprising the steps of: operating said at least one accessor to selectively extract, place and transport data storage cartridges with respect to said multi-cartridge deep slot cells and with respect to other elements of said automated data storage library; positioning data storage cartridges in said sequential order with respect to said multi-cartridge deep slot cells; determining whether all tiers of at least selected said multi-cartridge deep slot cells except said rearmost tier are full; and in response to said determining step indicating that all tiers of at least selected said multi-cartridge deep slot cells except said rearmost tier are full, in said selectively extracting, placing and transporting data storage cartridge step, filling said rearmost tier of said multi-cartridge deep slot cells except for an evenly spread selection of said multi-cartridge deep slot cells.