Compact form factor for an automated tape cartridge autoloader/library system

A tape cartridge autoloader/library system (100) including at least one read/write tape drive (101), a tape cartridge picker (102), a single tape cartridge interface (107), and a pair of tape cartridge magazines (103) & (104) within a compact form factor that fits into a standard library rack mount. The autoloader/library system (100) stores, manages, and automatically exchanges a plurality of tape cartridges (106) between the tape drive (101), the single cartridge interface (107), and the magazines (103) & (104). The magazines (103) & (104) each receive and store a plurality of tape cartridges (106) in a horizontal relationship. The tape cartridge magazines (103) & (104) transport the individual cartridges (106) within the magazines (103) & (104) to position the cartridges (106) for selection by the cartridge picker (102). The cartridge picker (102) rotates to exchange tape cartridges (106) between one of the tape drive (101), the magazines (103) & (104), and/or the single tape cartridge interface (107). The single cartridge interface (107) exchanges individual tape cartridges (106) between an operator and the autoloader/library system (100).