A controller of an automated data storage library is configured to store information regarding operation of the library in a memory; to reserve at least one data storage cartridge; and to operate a data storage drive and the memory to transfer at least a portion of the information stored in the memory to the reserved data storage cartridge. The library controller is configured to maintain an externally available inventory of data storage cartridges of the library, e.g. for a host system, and excludes the reserved data storage cartridge from the inventory.