Abstract: An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed to shutdown a library manager while the library system remains in a partially online state. A message module is included to send a suspend message to a host such that the host stops sending library manager commands, a shutdown module is included to shutdown a library manager while a data storage device remains coupled to the host in an online state, a startup module is included to restart the library manager in response to a completed library manager maintenance operation, and a resume module is included to send a resume message to the host that the library manager is available for library manager commands.

Abstract: A device, method, and system for switching library managers of a data library while maintaining data library storage devices online. A library manager accepts and executes data transaction commands for access to data residing on the storage devices of the data library. A transition manager module receives a directive to transition library management functions from a first library manager to a second library manger. The transition manager module stops the first library manager from accepting new data transaction commands while maintaining the storage devices online. The first library manager may execute previously accepted data transaction commands. The transition manager module suspends the library management functions of the first library manager and activates the library management functions of the second library manager. The storage devices of the data library may complete data transaction commands throughout the library manager transition.