Abstract: An information storage apparatus comprises a one or more storage media 168 which include a plurality of information tracks. Each storage medium 168 has a head assembly 170 having a substantially planar surface and a plurality of read/write heads positioned in registry with said information tracks. The read/write heads are arranged substantially in the plane of the planar surface. The information storage medium 168 and the head assembly 170 are arranged in mutually sliding abutment such that the read/write heads are substantially in sliding contact with the outer surface of the information storage medium in use.